desperately
Translation
desperately, extremely, hopelessly
Examples
He was desperately trying to stay afloat.
He was desperately trying to stay afloat.
She desperately wanted a new bike.
She desperately wanted a new bike.
Grammar Patterns
modifies a verb to do (sth.) desperately He desperately needed some money.
Similar Words
Synonyms: frantically, hopelessly, extremely; Antonyms: calmly, hopefully
Etymology
From Latin 'de-' (away from) + 'sperare' (to hope). The '-ly' suffix makes it an adverb.
Memory Tips
Think of someone acting in a 'desperate' manner, without hope. It often implies great urgency or need.