| 释义 |
impotently, adv.|ˈɪmpətəntlɪ|
[f. impotent a. + -ly2.]
1. Powerlessly, helplessly, ineffectively.
1611Cotgr., Impuissament, impotently, vnpowerfully. a1652J. Smith Sel. Disc. ii. i. (1821) 33 To imagine him so impotently mutable, that his favour may be won again with their uncouth devotions. 1742Young Nt. Th. v. 553 Some weep in earnest; and yet weep in vain;..Passion, blind passion! impotently pours Tears, that deserve more tears. 1868Kinglake Crimea (1877) III. i. 64 He impotently watched the progress of Antemarre's brigade.
†2. Without self-restraint; ungovernably, unrestrainedly. Obs.
1621Burton Anat. Mel. iii. ii. vi. v. (1651) 575 He loves her most impotently, she loves not him, and so e contra. 1630B. Jonson New Inn i. Wks. (Rtldg.) 412/1, I have loved this lady long, And impotently with desire enough. 1653H. More Conject. Cabbal. 203 (T.) The danger is of being impotently passionate. |