Hollowly

In a manner that lacks depth, meaning, or sincerity; insincerely; emptily. This adverb describes actions, sounds, or expressions that convey a sense of void or emptiness. It implies a lack of genuine feeling, substance, or emotional connection. It can refer to a voice sounding resonant but without real emotion, a gesture appearing welcoming but lacking warmth, or an argument presented forcefully but without strong supporting evidence. The effect is often one of disquiet or a feeling that something is missing or untrue, creating a distance between the speaker and the listener or the action and its true purpose.

Hollowly meaning with examples

• Despite the grand pronouncements, the politician's promises rang hollowly, failing to address the pressing needs of the community. The lack of concrete plans and genuine empathy left many feeling disillusioned, questioning the sincerity of their aspirations. It highlighted a disconnect between the words and the perceived actions, creating a sense of mistrust among constituents.
• Her forced laughter echoed hollowly through the empty house, a stark contrast to the joyous occasion she attempted to portray. The artificiality of her cheer seemed out of place, underscoring a hidden sorrow she couldn't seem to conceal. The superficial facade she tried to maintain only served to emphasize the underlying hollowness of her situation.
• The cheers of the crowd faded as the team played, eventually dying away hollowly. The lack of effort and strategy during their game resulted in an embarrassing display. Their initial enthusiasm gave way to muted disappointment. The sounds suggested a loss of hope and the end of support.
• The words of the apology fell hollowly on the injured person's ears, feeling more like a formality. The perceived lack of remorse and genuine understanding only served to amplify the impact of the original offense. They felt empty, failing to provide the solace and reassurance needed for the healing process.
• The accusations echoed hollowly through the courtroom, lacking the concrete evidence to back them up. While the allegations created a sensation, the case eventually became empty and the impact dissipated. The absence of proof undermined their impact and resulted in a dismissal of the case.