basically

The word “basically” means in essence; when reduced to the most important point. In plain terms, a word used to sum something up simply, or as a casual filler at the start of a sentence.

“Basically” is pronounced BAY-sihk-lee (/ˈbeɪ.sɪk.(ə.)li/ in IPA).

Here is “basically” used in a sentence: “Basically, we're over budget and behind schedule.”

Words with a similar meaning to “basically” include fundamentally and more often than not.

“Basically” is an adverb.

“Basically” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

They are close synonyms, both introducing the core of a point. 'Basically' feels more casual and conversational, often used to simplify or sum up in speech. 'Essentially' sounds a little more formal and precise. In most sentences you can swap one for the other, though 'basically' can also work as a filler word.

'Basically' leans informal and is very common in everyday speech. It works well for simplifying an idea, but it is often overused as a filler, adding little meaning. In formal or academic writing, editors tend to cut it or replace it with 'essentially', 'fundamentally' or 'in essence' for a cleaner, more precise tone.

It usually introduces a simplified summary, as in 'Basically, we ran out of time' or 'The plan is basically finished'. It signals that what follows is the heart of the matter, stripped of detail. Used sparingly it aids clarity, but dropping it into every sentence quickly makes speech sound vague and repetitive.