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.
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
She pulled it back, and Boaz could practically feel her gaze on the bite mark Clara had left behind.
From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny
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.
