basically

adverb

ba·​si·​cal·​ly ˈbā-si-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce basically (audio)
also -zi-
Synonyms of basicallynext
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

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Examples of basically in a Sentence

your answer is basically correct
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The regular Reese's cups are the perfect ratio of chocolate to peanut butter, the shapes are basically peanut butter with a veneer of chocolate. — Jake Ciely, New York Times, 28 Oct. 2026 The Oxford team used ultrafast terahertz spectroscopy, which basically fires laser pulses lasting mere fractions of a second. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2026 The Buffaloes basically have to win out to make a bowl game, and with games against Houston, Cincinnati, and UCF to end the season, that looks highly unlikely. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026 That’s her full-time job is to basically keep the monument clean. — Brayden Garcia october 28, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for basically

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of basically was in 1863

Browse Nearby Words

basic airman
basically
basic amenities
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Cite this Entry

“Basically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/basically. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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