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Poorly vs Helpless - What's the difference?

poorly | helpless | Related terms |

Poorly is a related term of helpless.


As adjectives the difference between poorly and helpless

is that poorly is ill, unwell, sick while helpless is unable to defend oneself or to act without help.

As an adverb poorly

is in a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort.

poorly

English

Adverb

(en adverb)
  • In a poor manner or condition; without plenty, or sufficiency, or suitable provision for comfort.
  • to live poorly
  • With little or no success; indifferently; with little profit or advantage.
  • to do poorly in business
  • Meanly; without spirit.
  • * Dryden
  • Nor is their courage or their wealth so low, / That from his wars they poorly would retire.
  • Without skill or merit.
  • He plays tennis poorly .

    Usage notes

    * Adjectives to which "poorly" is often applied: planned, conceived, executed, implemented, performing, managed, controlled, designed, represented, differentiated, suited, built, dressed, soluble, ventilated, known, paid, etc.

    Adjective

    (-)
  • ill, unwell, sick
  • Synonyms

    * See also

    helpless

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Unable to defend oneself or to act without help.
  • * 1995 , (Bryan Adams),
  • Then when you find yourself lyin' helpless in her arms
    You know you really love a woman
  • Uncontrollable.