View synonyms for

practically

[ prak-tik-lee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adverb

in effect; virtually:
It is practically useless to protest.
in a practical manner:
to think practically.
from a practical point of view:
Practically speaking, the plan is not very promising.
almost; nearly:
Their provisions were practically gone.

practically

/ -klɪ; ˈpræktɪkəlɪ /

adverb

virtually; almost
it has rained practically every day
in actuality rather than in theory
what can we do practically to help?

Discover More

Usage Note

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.

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of practically¹

First recorded in 1615–25; practical + -ly

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Joe’s inner monologue pipes up, excitedly stating, “In the canon of epic romances, bouncing back from a gunpoint confessional is practically a genre staple.”

From

The Grand Charcuterie Celebration is practically designed for a hazy hangout with friends: think artisan cheeses, cured meats, and all the charcuterie essentials.

From

Other than a small crowd listening to members of the National Symphony perform chamber music, I felt like I had the building practically to myself.

From

"People in England have access to childcare support for younger children – from nine months onwards – and that means their bills are practically half of what bills are for families in Wales."

From

The literary legacy Vargas Llosa leaves behind, however, is practically unequaled in its scale, its reach or its influence.

From

Related Words

practical joke practical nurse

Browse