What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
badly
Example
He played badly in the soccer game and missed several shots. [badly: adverb]
Example
I badly need a vacation, I've been working non-stop. [badly: adverb]
awfully
Example
The food at that restaurant was awfully bland, I wouldn't recommend it. [awfully: adverb]
Example
She was awfully excited when she found out she got the job. [awfully: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Badly is more commonly used than awfully in everyday language. Badly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while awfully is less common and more informal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between badly and awfully?
While badly can be used in both formal and informal contexts, awfully is more informal and casual in nature.
