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.

---

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?

---

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

"By studying the atomic current, we could see that diffusion is practically completely suppressed," says Møller.

From Science Daily

It’s practically a family tree in metal, commemorating the one-man fundraising efforts of his father, the business developer Steve Soboroff, to repair the local play area.

From Los Angeles Times

Just a couple of years ago, NFL teams looked at Malik Willis and saw a quarterback that was practically worthless.

From The Wall Street Journal

Recent profiles in The Atlantic and The New York Times have elevated the 27-year-old into practically a household name.

From Salon

Most EVs—and certainly $100,000 luxury SUVs—will be charged almost exclusively at home, in scenarios that make maximum range and charging rates practically irrelevant.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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