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

But fentanyl is primarily produced in Mexico - not South America - and comes into the US over the southern border.

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

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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.

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

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