acutely

[uh-kyoot-lee]

adverb

1. having a sharp, severe, or intense effect.

   Reductions in the workforce will be felt most acutely by those in entry-level jobs.

   Compounds formed by reaction with the contaminant create the potential for formation of acutely toxic products.

2. having an extremely great or serious effect; critically.

   The Iberian lynx is considered the most acutely endangered species of wildcat.

3. happening briefly or severely; happening at a single point in time (opposed tochronically ).

   The report describes a patient presenting acutely with mental symptoms of confusion and hallucinations.

   We studied the effects of field-realistic doses of the herbicide on honeybees exposed either chronically or acutely.

4. in a way that is intellectually penetrating or insightful; perceptively.

   In this acutely focused exhibition, the artist delves deeply into a single object: her kitchen sink.

5. in a way that is sensitive to even slight details or impressions.

   The orchestra matched the inspirational conductor beautifully, interacting and responding acutely.

Other Word Forms

• hyperacutely adverb
• nonacutely adverb
• overacutely adverb
• superacutely adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of acutely¹

acute ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The data centre industry is acutely aware that legislators are keeping an eye on the downsides of AI factories with their intense energy use having a potential impact on local infrastructure and the environment.

From BBC

But like so many of my peers, I am acutely suffering under this reactionary authoritarian regime.

From Salon

The new arrival may like to link play, but Howe was acutely aware that "we won't want him to get himself out of goalscoring areas".

From BBC

"Historically the Turkish people have been acutely sensitive about the sanctity of the ballot and attempts to curtail it would provoke serious consequences," he says.

From BBC

When Sinner triumphed in the Wimbledon final two months ago, Alcaraz was made acutely aware of what he needed to do to ensure the same did not happen in New York.

From BBC

Related Words

• keenly 
• severely