basically

adverb

ba·​si·​cal·​ly ˈbā-si-k(ə-)lē 

also -zi-

1

a

: at a basic level : in fundamental disposition or nature

basically correct

basically, they are simple people

b

: for the most part

they basically play zone defense

2

: in a basic manner : simply

live basically

Synonyms of basically

• mostly
• mainly
• primarily
• largely
• chiefly
• predominantly
• generally
• principally

Examples of basically in a Sentence

your answer is basically correct

Recent Examples on the Web

This fly rod outfit is basically a one-and-done kit for getting out on the water fast and takes the guesswork out of learning all the ins and outs of fly fishing gear. —Francesca Krempa, Outside, 23 Dec. 2025

This place is basically a Kansas City gift cheat code. —Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 23 Dec. 2025

But even without speaking English, there are artists who succeed globally while using their own language — like Bad Bunny, who basically speaks only Spanish in his songs and interviews. —Billboard Japan, Billboard, 23 Dec. 2025

The world’s biggest advertising agency, Omnicom, bought its rival, IPG, as AI rocks the industry that basically invented it. —Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 23 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a