practically

[ prak-tik-lee ]

adverb

1. in effect; virtually:

   It is practically useless to protest.

2. in a practical manner:

   to think practically.

3. from a practical point of view:

   Practically speaking, the plan is not very promising.

4. almost; nearly:

   Their provisions were practically gone.

practically

/ -klɪ; ˈpræktɪkəlɪ /

adverb

1. virtually; almost

   it has rained practically every day

2. in actuality rather than in theory

   what can we do practically to help?

Usage Note

A few usage guides object to the use of practically in the senses “in effect, virtually” and “almost, nearly.” Both uses, however, are well established and standard in all varieties of speech and writing.

Word History and Origins

Origin of practically¹

First recorded in 1615–25; practical + -ly

Example Sentences

You can practically taste the sweet nectar of Middle East peace generated by that decision.

From Los Angeles Times

Once an ember ignites vegetation near the bottom, the flames can quickly scale both sides and rising heat dries out the vegetation ahead, practically clearing a path for the fire to race through.

From Los Angeles Times

Practically every item is just mouth-watering.

From Salon

They were practically playing with two number eights in Dombrandt and Ben Earl, and a six in Chandler Cunningham-South.

From BBC

"We will take this opportunity to review our approach on how to make our early years provision more sustainable in the future, and present future plans as soon as it is practically possible."

From BBC

Related Words

• approximately
• basically
• essentially
• morally
• nearly
• virtually