basically

[bey-sik-lee]

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.”

basically

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• quasi-basically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of basically¹

First recorded in 1900–05; basic + -ally

Example Sentences

Well, it basically just moved the goal posts.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Time has just basically like time stuff, time sequences, and for “remember” I had pictures.

Read more on Salon

The sort of capabilities, he added, that will upend “basically every industry.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He was recruited by Clemson out of high school, then basically cut from the team.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Chinese have basically been boycotting us in retaliation for the tariffs.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• essentially 
• mostly