basically

American  

[bey-sik-lee] / ˈbeɪ sɪk li /

adverb

1. in a way that involves or affects the fundamental character or condition.

   The building needs a few repairs, but is basically sound.

2. as a recap of the main point or idea; if put simply or briefly.

   Basically, her advice boils down to “Eat a sensible, balanced diet, and relax.”

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basically British  

/ ˈbeɪsɪklɪ /

adverb

1. in a fundamental or elementary manner; essentially

   strident and basically unpleasant

2. (sentence modifier) in essence; in summary; put simply

   basically we had underestimated mother nature

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Other Word Forms

• quasi-basically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of basically

First recorded in 1900–05; basic + -ally

Example Sentences

In an unusual move, the University of Michigan put out another press release on Friday basically defending its survey.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

At the time, SpaceX was basically a trucking business that charged governments and private companies to haul stuff into orbit.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

“I just have to say ... basically a star is born,” said Lindsay, grinning.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

Postal Service and Social Security Administration basically said they were still figuring out what the order means for them.

From Salon • May 16, 2026

So you are basically listening for a running, even pulse underlying the rhythms of the music.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones

Related Words

• essentially
• mostly