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

Example Sentences

After a quick lap around the post-date mingling, we practically raced to the car.

From Los Angeles Times

After two months of research in five states, the Burrs had attended so many spirit circles, that they practically became professional sitters.

From Literature

A long-time search and rescue volunteer in the area, Warner says you could practically walk right past a missing person and not see them, as the terrain is so "rugged".

From BBC

From early spring until late fall, practically all of her time was spent there.

From Literature

I was practically flooded out by the parade of people flowing through the gates, shouting and throwing handfuls of grain.

From Literature

Related Words

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