beastly
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbiːstli/
KK: /ˈbistli/
adjective
Definition
Something that is like a wild animal or very unpleasant.
Example
The beastly weather made it hard to go outside.
Conversation
Did you see that movie last night?
Yeah, it was pretty good, but some scenes were beastly.
I know, right? It was almost too much to handle at times.
For sure! I don't mind a little action, but that was intense.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
brutal
savage
feral
Antonyms
gentle
pleasant
humane
adverb
Definition
In a very extreme or intense manner.
Example
The weather was beastly hot during the summer.
Conversation
Did you see that last football match?
Yeah, it was beastly intense!
I couldn't believe how many goals were scored.
Root Explanation
Beastly → It is formed from "beast" (from Old French *beste*, meaning a wild animal) and "-ly" (meaning in the manner of). The word "beastly" describes something that is in the manner of a beast, often implying savagery or brutality.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'beast' to remember that 'beastly' means behaving like a wild animal, often in a savage way.
Visually Confused Words
benasty
yeastily
easterly