virtually

[vur-choo-uh-lee]

adverb

1. for the most part; almost wholly; just about.

   He is virtually unknown.

virtually

/ ˈvɜːtʃʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. in effect though not in fact; practically; nearly

Word History and Origins

Origin of virtually¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; virtual, -ly

Example Sentences

“Defendants apparently believe that the June 7 memorandum — issued in response to events in Los Angeles — indefinitely authorizes the deployment of National Guard troops anywhere in the country, for virtually any reason,” Hu wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

But, as most of them are families with children, HUD expects virtually all of them to give up assistance out of “fear of the family being separated,” the analysis reads.

From Salon

The company can utilize virtually any form of biomass, from wood to sticks to pine needles and brush.

From Los Angeles Times

Three quarters of patients were managed virtually and the initiative was credited in reducing waiting times by 58%.

From BBC

With his Tampa Bay Rays facing elimination against the Dodgers, he had answered the bell with five one-hit, nine-strikeout, virtually flawless Fall Classic innings.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• basically 
• essentially 
• nearly 
• practically 

When To Use

What does virtually mean?

Virtually most generally means in effect but not in fact, as in Today, virtually all cell phones are smartphones. Close synonyms are nearly, practically, and just about—they all mean virtually the same thing.Virtually is the adverb form of the adjective virtual, which is most generally used to describe something as being the same as something else in almost every way, except perhaps in name or some other minor, technical sense. For example, describing a company as a virtual monopoly means it’s pretty much a monopoly but not technically one, perhaps because it has a few minor competitors.Virtual also commonly means simulated or extended by computer software. The word is used this way in virtual reality, which refers to a fully simulated environment. To render something virtually is to create a representation or simulation of it using a computer.Sometimes, things described as virtual may not involve simulation at all, such as a virtual meeting or a virtual concert. The use of virtual in these phrases represents a more recent sense of the word that means something like “remote and via the internet” (especially when accessed via a live video feed).Virtually can be used in the same way, as in I can’t make it into the office, but I’ll be working virtually. Example: Virtually everyone agrees with the proposal—it has a 99.9% approval rating.