partly

adverb

part·​ly ˈpärt-lē How to pronounce partly (audio)
Synonyms of partlynext
: in some measure or degree : partially

Examples of partly in a Sentence

The project failed partly because of a lack of funds. What you say is only partly true.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That may partly explain why audiences respond strongly when powerful men discuss addiction candidly. Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 That partly stems from the way McCormack projects the gravitational pull of a man grappling with forces and feelings far beyond his control, which prevent him from seeking help when everything starts to go south. Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2026 That’s partly because Riley works on such a big canvas. Zak Cheney-Rice, Vulture, 22 May 2026 The film is set partly in a Humanitude facility, and the methodology gives the relationship between Efira’s and Okamoto’s characters both its occasion and its ethical ground. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for partly

Word History

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of partly was in 1523

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Cite this Entry

“Partly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/partly. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

partly

adverb
part·​ly ˈpärt-lē How to pronounce partly (audio)
: in some measure or degree : not completely
a statement that is only partly true

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