Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhɑːrmfəli/
KK: /ˈhɑrmfəli/
Definition
In a way that causes damage or injury.
Example
The chemicals were used harmfully, affecting the environment negatively.
Conversation

I heard that using too much plastic can affect the environment harmfully.

Yeah, it's really concerning how it impacts wildlife.

We should definitely find ways to reduce our plastic use.

Absolutely! Even small changes can make a big difference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
detrimentally
injuriously
dangerously
Antonyms
beneficially
helpfully
safely
Root Explanation
Harmfully → It is formed from "harm" (from Old English "hearm", meaning damage or injury) and "-fully" (meaning in a manner full of). The word "harmfully" means in a manner that causes damage or injury.
Memory Tip
Think of 'harm' as causing damage and '-fully' as doing something in a certain way — so 'harmfully' means doing something in a way that causes harm.
Visually Confused Words
charmfully
unharmfully
shamefully
heartfully
charmful
artfully
aimfully
armful