basically

[bey-sik-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that involves or affects the fundamental character or condition.

   The building needs a few repairs, but is basically sound.

2. as a recap of the main point or idea; if put simply or briefly.

   Basically, her advice boils down to “Eat a sensible, balanced diet, and relax.”

basically

/ ˈbeɪsɪklɪ /

adverb

1. in a fundamental or elementary manner; essentially

   strident and basically unpleasant

2. (sentence modifier) in essence; in summary; put simply

   basically we had underestimated mother nature

Other Word Forms

• quasi-basically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of basically¹

First recorded in 1900–05; basic + -ally

Example Sentences

It’s basically internet slang that means I can never have too many lychees.

From Salon

“It basically says, if you entered illegally, only ICE can decide if you get out of detention.”

From Los Angeles Times

Scrub a little of the humor from the script, and it’s basically a West Coast version of “The Pitt,” using familiar sitcom props and set-ups to portray the many facets of systemic failure.

From Salon

“The bulk of that law is basically canceling what would have been a tax increase, not a further tax cut,” Watson said.

From Salon

"So she's had people going out for her basically not being straight with people and that's not acceptable," he added.

From BBC

Related Words

• essentially 
• mostly