sadly

American  

[sad-lee] / ˈsæd li /

adverb

1. in an unhappy, sorrowful, or regretful way; unfortunately; regrettably.

   Gun tracing is an attempt to answer the sadly common question of where the gun used in a crime came from.

   Sadly, the tourism and money brought in by the World Cup games won't benefit the people who need it most.

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Usage

What does sadly mean? Sadly means in an unhappy, sorrowful, or regretful way, as in Whenever my dog looks at me sadly, I can’t help but cuddle him.Sadly is frequently used to mean unfortunately, as in Sadly, he could not make the game today. This usage often gives a more emotional or sympathetic tone to a statement. It’s often used for disappointments, excuses, reports of loss, and any other scenario where something could be upsetting to the listener or reader.Example: We report sadly that we were unable to reach our financial goals this quarter.

Etymology

Origin of sadly

sad ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

“I am beyond thrilled to welcome Trevor Noah back to host the Grammys for his sixth, and sadly, final time,” the show’s executive producer Ben Winston said in a statement earlier this month.

From Los Angeles Times

“We are sadly no closer to a solution! We will try to remain quiet, though, if it helps!”

From Literature

But it wasn't – sadly - the dawn of peace.

From BBC

While many Ukrainians are now sadly accustomed to the drone and missile strikes, they are increasingly frayed by the relentless attacks that cut off electricity and heating in the middle of a particularly biting winter.

From BBC

Following the intermission Finland gave way to Denmark and its most prominent composer, Carl Nielsen, whose six symphonies remain sadly underperformed in the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• wistfully