primarily

American  

[prahy-mair-uh-lee, -mer-, prahy-mer-uh-lee, -mer-uh-] / praɪˈmɛər ə li, -ˈmɛr-, ˈpraɪ mɛr ə li, -mər ə- /

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.

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primarily British  

/ ˈpraɪmərəlɪ /

adverb

1. principally; chiefly; mainly

2. at first; originally

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Etymology

Origin of primarily

First recorded in 1610–20; primary + -ly

Example Sentences

Investors have been spooked by a series of events, including the bankruptcies of subprime auto lender Tricolor and auto-parts supplier First Brands last September, even though their loans were primarily originated by banks.

From The Wall Street Journal

“In Italy we drink coffee about 20 times a day,” Cervelli said, referring primarily to espresso.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bahraini officials said a total of 190 incoming drones and 114 missiles have been intercepted, primarily by its own air defences, since the conflict began.

From BBC

While primarily in English, the American production incorporates Asian iconography, food and some Korean language to showcase its South Korean roots.

From BBC

But those primarily interested in dividend income shouldn’t toss them in the dustbin just yet.

From Barron's