hardly
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hardly
An adverb that expresses that something can happen only with great effort, under difficult circumstances, or very unlikely. It is a more elevated variant of 'kaum' (hardly).
Ohne eine genaue Karte werden wir den abgelegenen Ort schwerlich finden.
Without an accurate map, we will hardly find the remote place.
The adverb 'schwerlich' (hardly) is derived from the adjective 'schwer' (difficult/heavy). The ending '-lich' forms an adverb here that carries the meaning 'in a difficult way' or 'with difficulty.'
Das lässt sich schwerlich beweisen.
That can hardly be proven.
'Schwerlich' (hardly) belongs to elevated written language and is rarely used in everyday conversation. It gives a statement a formal or literary tone.
Er wird sein Versprechen schwerlich halten können.
He will hardly be able to keep his promise.
As an adverb, 'schwerlich' (hardly) usually comes directly after the conjugated verb in a main clause. It expresses strong doubt or a negative assessment.
Ich kann das schwerlich akzeptieren.
I can hardly accept that.
hardly / barely
'kaum' and 'schwerlich' can both express that something almost does not happen or is very unlikely. 'kaum' is very common in everyday language and can also mean a very small amount. 'schwerlich' sounds more elevated and is mainly used when saying that something is probably not possible or can only happen with great difficulty. Learners may confuse the words because 'schwerlich' often works like 'kaum'. In normal conversation, 'kaum' is usually more natural. 'schwerlich' fits better in more formal sentences or when you want to express an assessment especially clearly.
Ohne die Unterlagen kann er den Antrag schwerlich rechtzeitig abgeben.
Without the documents, he will hardly be able to submit the application on time.
Am Wochenende hatte der Kunde kaum Zeit für einen neuen Termin.
At the weekend, the customer barely had time for a new appointment.