Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

Definition of badly adverb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Oxford3000

badly

adverb
badly pronunciation English ˈbædli badly pronunciation American ˈbædli
worse, worst
 
1 not skilfully or not carefullyto play/sing badlybadly designed/organized
Opposite
well
2 not successfullyThings have been going badly.I did badly (= was not successful) in my exams.
Opposite
well
3 not in an acceptable wayto behave/sleep badlybadly paid/treatedThe kids took the dog's death very badly (= they were very unhappy).
Opposite
well
4 in a way that makes people get a bad opinion about somethingThe economic crisis reflects badly on the government's policies.She's only trying to help, so don't think badly of her.
Opposite
well
5 used to emphasize how much you want, need, etc. somebody/somethingThe building is badly in need of repair.They wanted to win so badly.I miss her badly.6 used to emphasize how serious a situation or an event isbadly damaged/injured/hurtThe country has been badly affected by recession.Everything's gone badly wrong!