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

Despite these warnings, and representatives of the industry lobbying for a tariff exemption, the administration has largely downplayed the issue as insignificant in the context of its broader economic goals. —Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025

The fact that the voting took less than two days, on par with the selection of Pope Francis in 2013, shows that the cardinal-electors were largely united in their choice of a man known for his solid judgment, his sharp insight, and a steady hand to lead the church through a tumultuous time. —Aryn Baker, Time, 8 May 2025

This annual meeting season, conservative groups like the National Center For Public Policy Research, The Nathan Cummings Foundation and the National Legal and Policy Center have offered anti-DEI proposals, largely focusing on removing DEI considerations from executive compensation. —Maria Gracia Santillana Linares, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Prevost, 69, is from Chicago and has largely worked in Peru. —Brett Samuels, The Hill, 8 May 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