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

The cells are basically screaming ‘Hey, our DNA is getting cooked here,’ and that stimulates the pigment cell. —Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 16 June 2026

The 10-year Treasury note is basically flat since the deal was announced over the weekend, suggesting investors aren't totally convinced that inflation will be dropping any time soon. —Christopher Cann, USA Today, 16 June 2026

This juice is basically summer in a glass. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 16 June 2026

In all seriousness, the midfielder dished that the five-time Ballon d’Or award winner is basically the GOAT. —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a