sorely

adv

Etymology: From Middle English sorely, from Old English sārlīċ (adjective), sārlīċe (adverb); equivalent to sore + -ly.

1. In a sore or desperate manner.

   “But the decision to electrify north of Sheffield just months after the government 'paused' the Midland Main Line electrification scheme from Leicester to Sheffield illustrates the lack of clear vision or decision-making that the railways sorely need.”

2. Very, extremely.

   “He said he wanted it [the picture] for his study. I would not let him have it, and he went away sorely puzzled.”

   “If Chelsea hoped this blow would have a detrimental effect on Arsenal, they were to be sorely mistaken as the Gunners surged forward after the restart.”