Definition of Primarily
Primarily is an adverb that means mainly, chiefly, or for the most part. It is used to indicate the primary focus or main reason behind an action, situation, or concept.
Example Sentences:
- The book is primarily about the history of ancient civilizations.
- She works primarily as a consultant but also teaches part-time.
- The company’s revenue comes primarily from its online sales.
Synonyms for Primarily
Below is a categorized list of synonyms for “primarily,” ranging from strongest to weakest matches.
Strongest Matches (Direct Synonyms)
These words closely resemble “primarily” in meaning and usage:
- Mainly
- Chiefly
- Predominantly
- Principally
- Essentially
- Largely
- Fundamentally
Strong Matches (Closely Related Synonyms)
These words share a similar meaning but may have slightly different nuances:
- Foremost
- Preeminently
- Above all
- In essence
- Most importantly
Weak Matches (Less Direct Synonyms)
These words may be used in some contexts but are not perfect substitutes for “primarily”:
- Partly
- Somewhat
- Nominally
- Superficially
- Marginally
Contextual Usage of “Primarily”
Academic Context:
- The study focuses primarily on the effects of climate change on marine life.
Business Context:
- Our target audience consists primarily of young professionals looking for career growth.
Technology Context:
- This software is designed primarily for data security and encryption.
Casual Conversation:
- I watch movies primarily for entertainment, not for deep meanings.
Related Words and Phrases
- Primary (adjective) – The primary goal of this project is sustainability.
- Prime (adjective) – The prime reason for their success is innovation.
- Predominant (adjective) – The predominant color in the painting is blue.
- Foremost (adjective) – Safety is our foremost concern.
- Essentially (adverb) – The novel is essentially a love story with elements of mystery.
Additional Information
- Word Origin: Derived from the Latin primarius, meaning “of first rank.”
- Pronunciation: /ˈpraɪmərəli/ or /ˈpraɪərəli/ (depending on American or British English)
- Part of Speech: Adverb
- Common Collocations:
- Primarily concerned with – The research is primarily concerned with mental health.
- Primarily due to – The delay was primarily due to bad weather.
- Primarily based on – The decision was primarily based on customer feedback.
Disclaimer
This page is for informational and educational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, language evolves, and meanings may vary depending on context. For professional linguistic guidance, please consult a language expert.
