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

They also feed primarily on submerged aquatic vegetation, which is limited in California and required for sensitive native species.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The incentives were vital in making EVs more affordable, given their batteries had primarily been made with expensive rare earth minerals, adding to sticker prices compared to gas-powered vehicles.

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Last year, tech investor Andreessen Horowitz was among those backing a new studio, Promise, that will primarily use generative AI to make shows and movies.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

These groups consist primarily of teenage boys and young men who want to harm girls.

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Health checks are primarily aimed at identifying people at risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes and dementia.

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