practically

American  

[prak-tik-lee] / ˈpræk tɪk li /

adverb

1. in effect; virtually.

   It is practically useless to protest.

2. in a practical manner.

   to think practically.

3. from a practical point of view.

   Practically speaking, the plan is not very promising.

4. almost; nearly.

   Their provisions were practically gone.

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practically British  

/ -klɪ, ˈpræktɪkəlɪ /

adverb

1. virtually; almost

   it has rained practically every day

2. in actuality rather than in theory

   what can we do practically to help?

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Usage

A few usage guides object to the use of practically in the senses “in effect, virtually” and “almost, nearly.” Both uses, however, are well established and standard in all varieties of speech and writing.

Etymology

Origin of practically

First recorded in 1615–25; practical + -ly

Explanation

Practically means "nearly," like being practically broke if you have three dollars left in the whole world. It also means "done in a practical way" — if you wear sneakers on a long walk, you’re dressed practically. There are two main senses of practically. If you have practically no free time, you have nearly no free time. If your hair is practically blonde, it is almost blonde. Also, this word can refer to the sense of practical as sensible and realistic. A smart worker will know how to get the job done practically (efficiently). A smart investor will invest money practically (wisely). Doing things practically is the opposite of being reckless and unrealistic.

Example Sentences

But with AI, users can manipulate people’s voices and images to sing or say practically anything.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the latest attack lasted "practically all night", while rescue workers were still searching for survivors under rubble in Dnipro on Saturday morning.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2026

"The EU's plan for electric cars was practically made for them; it opened up the European market to them in a very short time."

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

Balancing the burden between current and future cohorts is a tricky question, both theoretically and practically.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Clare leapt every few strides, practically flying through the air, his cape flapping behind him heroically.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

Related Words

• approximately
• basically
• essentially
• morally
• nearly
• virtually