partly

[ pahrt-lee ]

adverb

1. in part; to some extent or degree; not wholly; partially:

   His statement is partly true.

partly

/ ˈpɑːtlɪ /

adverb

1. to some extent; not completely

Usage

Partly and partially are to some extent interchangeable, but partly should be used when referring to a part or parts of something: the building is partly (not partially ) of stone, while partially is preferred for the meaning to some extent: his mother is partially (not partly ) sighted

Word History and Origins

Origin of partly¹

First recorded in 1515–25; part + -ly

Example Sentences

By now it's partly reflex, operating from a fear of being called liberal.

From Salon

This failure to cope lies partly with the changing nature of the drug market itself.

From Salon

Evans said he hid his sexuality, partly to protect his parents.

From BBC

We didn’t, partly because we filmed those interviews five years ago and we wanted to keep it on the down low.

From BBC

"The tradition continues, partly because it's an absolutely prime time for retailers to be speaking to potential consumers," she said.

From BBC

Related Words

• at least
• partially
• slightly
• somewhat