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Definition of basically

basically

/ˈbeɪ.sɪ.kli/
ba · si · cal · ly
Adjective:basic
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basically Lexical Profile

basically Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In the most essential respects; fundamentally or at root.

Example

"The two proposals are basically identical in their approach to reducing carbon emissions."

2

Used as a sentence modifier to indicate that a statement summarizes the most important point or simplifies a complex situation.

Example

"Basically, if we do not secure additional funding by Friday, the project will be delayed."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for basically
Antonyms
View all antonyms for basically

Word Nuance & Usage

While entirely standard when meaning 'fundamentally', 'basically' is frequently overused as a conversational filler word in casual speech and should be used sparingly in formal writing.

• Nearby Words

bashfulness
bashing
basic
basically
basil
basilica
basilisk

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Basically. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/basically
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