sorely
UK: ˈsɔːli | US: ˈsɔːrli
adv. intensely or severely (emotional or physical distress)
adv. very much; extremely (regret, need, etc.)
The word "sorely" combines "sore," derived from Old English sār (meaning "painful" or "grievous"), with the adverbial suffix "-ly," which turns adjectives into adverbs. Originally, "sore" described physical pain but later expanded to emotional distress. The suffix "-ly" (from Old English -līce) standardizes the adjective into an adverb, emphasizing intensity. Over time, "sorely" evolved to express extreme degrees of need or regret (e.g., "sorely missed").
She was sorely disappointed by the results.
His advice is sorely needed in this crisis.
The team will be sorely tested in the finals.
He sorely regretted his harsh words.
This village is sorely lacking in medical facilities.