largely

adverb

large·​ly ˈlärj-lē 

: in a large manner

especially : to a large extent : mostly, primarily

words largely unknown a decade ago

Synonyms

• altogether
• basically
• by and large
• chiefly
• generally
• mainly
• mostly
• overall
• predominantly
• primarily
• principally
• substantially

Examples of largely in a Sentence

The story is largely true.

He is largely responsible for the problem.

The economy is based largely on farming.

Recent Examples on the Web

The power of ritual Tan, of Case Western Reserve, said the conclave’s shift from its Eurocentric foundations and focus is largely the handiwork of Francis himself, who appointed 108 of the 135 electors who will elect his successor. —Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025

Its double-digit yield is largely the product of a slumping stock, with shares off by more than 70% over the past few years amid slumping top and bottom lines. —Brett Owens, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025

More Southern Grandma Makeup Tips 7 Old-School Beauty Trends That Are Coming Back This Year Choose a Semi-Matte Lipstick While lip gloss has largely remained the favorite tube of the past two decades, a more natural-finish lipstick offers a dose of longer-lasting color and an inherent elegance. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2025

The United States began Hmong resettlement efforts in 1975, Xiong explained, and the government largely placed refugees in Minnesota, Wisconsin and California. —Alex V. Cipolle, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

largely

adverb

large·​ly ˈlärj-lē 

1

: generally sense 1

the story is largely true

2

: in a great amount

tipped the waiter largely