partly

[pahrt-lee]

adverb

1. in part; to some extent or degree; not wholly; partially.

   His statement is partly true.

partly

/ ˈpɑːtlɪ /

adverb

1. to some extent; not completely

Usage

Partly and partially are to some extent interchangeable, but partly should be used when referring to a part or parts of something: the building is partly (not partially ) of stone, while partially is preferred for the meaning to some extent: his mother is partially (not partly ) sighted

Word History and Origins

Origin of partly¹

First recorded in 1515–25; part + -ly

Example Sentences

Rheinmetall’s lofty valuation is also partly driven by plans that have yet to materialize.

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Very little cargo currently moves on American-flagged ships, partly because of staffing.

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The OIG said this problem was partly as a result of the DHS not having a list of Afghan evacuees "who lacked sufficient identification documents".

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“Construction activity may remain subdued, partly due to slower fiscal spending.”

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In the latest quarter, JD.com’s profit slumped 55%, partly due to its costly push into food delivery.

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Related Words

• at least 
• partially 
• slightly 
• somewhat