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

Oregon, meanwhile, faced a terrific test, and Moore was basically the reason the Ducks won. — Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026

When kids first got online, parents were bewildered and alarmed, but kids, who tend to gravitate to new technology, found freedom in a space that was basically ungoverned. — Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026

Privacy advocates say the cameras’ indiscriminate collection of every driver’s vehicle information basically creates a nationwide surveillance network that invites misuse by law enforcement. — Victoria Hoffmann, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Sep. 2026

The network and the president basically share an audience of viewers and voters. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a