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

This is basically every aerophobic flier’s worst nightmare, and Harlin does a solid job of maintaining the fear factor and shock right up to the moment of Rich’s decision to dump fuel and ditch, since the nearest airport, Guam, is out of range. —David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2026

Councilmembers deemed the metal gates — the ones that cover the front of basically every bodega, bank, and laundromat — unsightly and a magnet for graffiti. —Clio Chang, Curbed, 28 Apr. 2026

The former home to the Stars and Mavericks, Reunion Arena, was basically vacant for almost a decade before it was demolished in 2009. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026

Madison Avenue and Rodeo Drive are basically the same. —Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined at sense 1a