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Definition of ideally

ideally

/aɪˈdiː.ə.li/
i · de · al · ly
Adjective:ideal
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ideally Lexical Profile

ideally Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

Preferably; in the best possible way or under the most desirable circumstances.

Example

"Ideally, we should finalize the project budget before the end of the month."

2

In a manner that is completely suitable, faultless, or well-matched for a particular purpose.

Example

"Her background in environmental law makes her ideally suited for the director position."

3

In theory or imagination only, as opposed to actual practice or reality.

Example

"A frictionless surface exists only ideally in physics models rather than in the physical world."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for ideally

• Nearby Words

idealization
idealize
idealized
ideally
idealness
ideate
ideation

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from the adjective 'ideal' (via Late Latin idealis, from Ancient Greek idea, meaning 'form' or 'pattern') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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