Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /nəˈkjuːəsli/
KK: /nɑˈkjuəsli/
Definition
In a way that is harmful or damaging.
Example
The chemicals were released nocuously into the environment, causing serious pollution.
Conversation

Did you notice how he spoke so nocuously during the meeting?

Yeah, it made me uncomfortable just listening to him.

I wonder if he even realizes the impact of his words.

Probably not, but I hope he learns to communicate better.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
harmfully
detrimentally
injuriously
Antonyms
beneficially
helpfully
positively
Root Explanation
Nocuously → It is formed from "nocuus" (from Latin, meaning harmful) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "nocuously" means in a manner that is harmful or causing harm.
Memory Tip
Think of 'harmful' ('nocuus') and remember that 'nocuously' describes something done in a harmful way.
Visually Confused Words
innocuously
unctuously
uncuriously
oraculously
incuriously