acutely

American  

[uh-kyoot-lee] / əˈkyut li /

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.

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of acutely

acute ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

He added: "Extreme weather events are becoming more common across Scotland, and we know that communities in the Cairngorms have felt this acutely in recent years, with floods, drought and wildfires."

From BBC

Suddenly I’m acutely aware of the exact position of every muscle in my body.

From Literature

The effects of oil disruption are being most acutely felt in Asia, where multiple governments have had to take action to address fuel shortages.

From Barron's

The impact of the war is being felt more acutely in other markets.

From MarketWatch

The manufacturing sector will feel the impact of sharply higher energy prices “most acutely,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• keenly
• severely