Hackily vs. Hacky: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 29, 2024
Hackily refers to doing something in a crude or makeshift manner, while hacky describes something that is poorly made, crude, or inelegant.
Key Differences
Hackily is an adverb describing the manner in which an action is performed. When something is done hackily, it means it is executed in a crude, makeshift, or temporary way. This term often implies a lack of finesse or precision in the action. Hacky, on the other hand, is an adjective used to describe something that is crude, makeshift, or inelegant. This term often refers to the quality or nature of an object, solution, or piece of work.
Hackily is typically used to comment on the manner of execution, indicating how something is done, whereas hacky focuses on the inherent qualities of the thing being described. For instance, one might say a project was completed hackily if it was done quickly and carelessly, whereas a hacky project would be one that is inherently of poor quality regardless of how it was completed.
In usage, hackily modifies verbs, reflecting on the execution process, while hacky modifies nouns, reflecting on the quality or characteristics of the object or solution.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adverb
Adjective
Definition
In a crude or makeshift manner
Crude, makeshift, or inelegant
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Usage
Describes how an action is performed
Describes the quality of an object or solution
Focus
Manner of execution
Quality or nature
Example Sentence
He coded the solution hackily.
The code he wrote was very hacky.
Hackily and Hacky Definitions
Hackily
Executed without finesse or precision.
The report was written hackily, full of errors.
Hacky
Crude or makeshift in nature.
The hacky code caused many bugs in the software.
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Hackily
In an unrefined or improvised manner.
The event was organized hackily, with many last-minute changes.
Hacky
Poorly made or inelegant.
The hacky design of the website turned users away.
Hackily
Done in a rough and ready way.
He assembled the furniture hackily, so it wobbled.
Hacky
Inefficient and poorly executed.
His hacky approach to the problem didn't solve anything.
Hackily
In a crude or makeshift manner.
She fixed the leaking pipe hackily with duct tape.
Hacky
Lacking refinement or quality.
The hacky presentation was unprofessional and confusing.
Hackily
Performed with a lack of skill or polish.
The project was completed hackily, just to meet the deadline.
Hacky
Amateurish or subpar.
The hacky build of the prototype broke down quickly.
Hackily
(computing) In a hacky way.
Hacky
Like a hack; amateurish.
Hacky
(Geordie) Filthy or totally dirty.
Hacky
Using, or characterised by, hacks: poorly designed workarounds.
Hacky
(colloquial) Short and interrupted, broken, jerky; hacking.
A hacky cough. A hacky laugh. A hacky breath. A hacky howl.
Hacky
Hackneyed lacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal and trite
FAQs
Is hackily an adverb?
Yes, hackily is an adverb describing how an action is performed.
What does hacky mean?
Hacky describes something that is crude, makeshift, or poorly made.
Is hacky an adjective?
Yes, hacky is an adjective describing the quality of an object or solution.
What does hackily mean?
Hackily means doing something in a crude or makeshift manner.
How is hacky used in a sentence?
Hacky is used to modify a noun, indicating the quality of the object.
Is hackily always negative?
Generally, hackily has a negative connotation, implying poor quality.
What is an example of a hacky project?
A hacky project could be a hastily put-together science fair project with poor construction.
Can hackily refer to programming?
Yes, hackily can describe writing code in a quick, temporary, and unrefined manner.
Can hackily describe a person's work?
Yes, hackily can describe how a person performs their work.
Can hacky describe a piece of software?
Yes, hacky can describe software that is poorly designed or built.
How is hackily used in a sentence?
Hackily is used to modify a verb, indicating the manner of the action.
What is an example of something done hackily?
An example of something done hackily is quickly patching a hole in a wall with tape.
How can I avoid doing things hackily?
Take your time, plan thoroughly, and use proper tools and methods.
Is hacky always negative?
Yes, hacky usually implies something is of low quality or poorly made.
Can hackily be used in a positive sense?
Rarely, but it might be used humorously or self-deprecatingly to describe a makeshift solution.
What professions might use the term hackily?
Professions like software development, construction, and engineering might use this term.
Can hacky refer to a written document?
Yes, hacky can describe a document that is poorly written or structured.
What professions might use the term hacky?
Similar to hackily, fields like programming, engineering, and product design might use hacky.
How can I avoid making hacky products?
Focus on quality, test thoroughly, and seek feedback.
Can hacky be used in a positive sense?
Typically not, as hacky implies substandard quality.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
