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

"She will be an enormous loss to politics, missed by all those she worked so hard to support and champion, and of course most acutely by her family and friends."

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He was acutely aware that a great many of the people who had given him their money now despised him.

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Camillo is acutely aware of the benefits brought by Saudi Arabia hosting the Finals and will discuss the issue with other key WTA personnel once in position.

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Those close to Endrick are acutely aware of the pros and cons of any January move, and in many ways the safest bet would be to stay at Real.

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He added: "I am acutely aware that confidence is not necessarily a measure of competence, some unjustifiably lack confidence yet others have more confidence than their ability justifies."

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Related Words

• keenly 
• severely