primarily

[prahy-mair-uh-lee, -mer-, prahy-mer-uh-lee, -mer-uh-]

adverb

1. essentially; mostly; chiefly; principally.

   They live primarily from farming.

2. in the first instance; at first; originally.

   Primarily a doctor, he later became a lawyer.

primarily

/ ˈpraɪmərəlɪ /

adverb

1. principally; chiefly; mainly

2. at first; originally

Word History and Origins

Origin of primarily¹

First recorded in 1610–20; primary + -ly

Example Sentences

Despite the mounting challenges and Dollar Tree’s reputation as a primarily defensive stock, shares have outperformed this year’s bull market, climbing 28% in 2025 as of the close of trading Tuesday.

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The analysis of the fossilized specimens, combined with genomics, will help determine whether the dispersal of these insects after the breakup of Gondwana was primarily passive or active.

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The brown hyena, the rarest of all hyena species, is primarily nocturnal and tends to live a solitary life.

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Energy experts say higher costs have primarily been driven by the UK's reliance on gas and its exposure to its volatile prices on international markets.

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The remaining $400 million is primarily tied to fees for contract cancellations and commercial settlements related to its investments in EVs.

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