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

Prior to their reign of terror, measles had been basically eradicated. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 21 Jan. 2026

However, because the configuration of the whole space is basically open-plan—only the sauna, the kids’ room, and the bathroom are enclosed—the main suite is effectively an extension of the kitchen-dining-living areas. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Jan. 2026

From the start of 2013 through the close of 2019, the ratio of debt to GDP basically flatlined at around 75%. —Shawn Tully, Fortune, 21 Jan. 2026

And, if this basically becomes an obsession, then the nature of the change to the transatlantic relationship is going to be really, really dramatic. —Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a