practically
Americanadverb
-
virtually; almost
it has rained practically every day
-
in actuality rather than in theory
what can we do practically to help?
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
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.
Vocabulary lists containing practically
Holes
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Frindle
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The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The intro to Royal Caribbean’s daily planner, called the Cruise Compass, practically challenged me to try it all on a Thursday in early May.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026
The AI boom has driven Nvidia's stock price up more than 1,170 percent over the past five years, making many employees holding stock options millionaires practically overnight.
From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026
It’s exactly the kind of expanding, heart-filling rock ‘n’ roll ballad that Springsteen has practically trademarked at this point.
From Salon • May 28, 2026
The buyer told the Athletic that he believes it will remain the best card for a player whose superstar potential is practically unlimited.
From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026
From early spring until late fall, practically all of her time was spent there.
From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
