What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
longingly
Example
She looked longingly at the cake, wishing she could have a slice. [longingly: adverb]
Example
He reached out longingly for her hand, hoping she would take it. [longingly: adverb]
yearningly
Example
She yearningly gazed at the old photograph, remembering the happy times. [yearningly: adverb]
Example
He spoke yearningly of his childhood home, which he had not seen in years. [yearningly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Longingly and yearningly are both less common words that are typically used in more formal or literary contexts. However, longingly is slightly more common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between longingly and yearningly?
Both longingly and yearningly are considered formal words that are more appropriate for written or spoken communication in professional or academic settings. However, longingly has a more sentimental or romantic connotation that may make it less suitable for very formal contexts.
