mainly

adverb

main·​ly ˈmān-lē 

1

obsolete : in a forceful manner

2

: for the most part : chiefly

Synonyms of mainly

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

Examples of mainly in a Sentence

you mainly need to focus on improving your golf swing

Recent Examples on the Web

The actor and director mainly need to provide continuity and variety. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026

This phase is notable mainly for the emergence of early algae, fungi, and invertebrate animals toward its end. — Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026

The rapper made various appearances in Europe for Fashion Month, and sat front row with fun pumps and high heels at different shows, mainly for Milan Fashion Week. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026

Although L’Oréal’s Revitalift line is mainly marketed as a mature-skin product, the pros assure readers it shouldn’t be limited to mature skin types alone. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mainly

• plainly
• sanely
• vainly
• humanely
• insanely
• profanely
• ungainly