Chiefly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chiefly
[ˈtʃiːfli ]
Definitions
formal
Mainly or mostly, typically used to indicate the primary focus or importance of something.
Synonyms
largely, mainly, mostly, primarily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chiefly |
Used when focusing on the most important or primary aspect of something.
|
| mostly |
Used when something happens the majority of the time or for the most part, but not exclusively.
|
| mainly |
Used to describe the primary, most frequent, or dominant aspect or activity.
|
| primarily |
Used to indicate the main purpose, function, or focus of something.
|
| largely |
Used when something happens to a great extent or majority, indicating the overall sense without exclusion.
|
Examples of usage
- He is chiefly responsible for the success of the project.
- The company is chiefly known for its innovative products.
literary
In the main; for the most part.
Synonyms
largely, mainly, mostly, primarily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chiefly |
Used to emphasize the most important reason, aspect, or element of something. It often highlights the primary focus or main point of discussion.
|
| mostly |
Indicates that something happens for the most part or generally true in the majority of cases, but not exclusively.
|
| mainly |
Used when identifying the main reason, cause, or part of something. It is often used to indicate the primary focus but allows for other factors to be present.
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| primarily |
Used to point out the primary reason, purpose, or element of something. It focuses on the main point, often above all others.
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| largely |
Applied when something happens or is true to a great extent, but not completely. It often describes a predominant factor or major portion.
|
Examples of usage
- The garden was chiefly roses, with a few other flowers scattered in between.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- This adverb is often used in literature to clarify the main theme or focus of a story.
- Writers frequently employ 'chiefly' to highlight what is most important or notable in their narratives.
- In poetry, 'chiefly' can set up contrast, making the main idea stand out more vividly against lesser themes.
Grammar
- 'Chiefly' is classified as an adverb, which describes how or to what extent something is done.
- It often modifies verbs or adjectives to indicate that something is done primarily or mostly.
- In sentences, 'chiefly' can help streamline complex ideas, making them easier to understand at a glance.
Pop Culture
- In various media, characters may describe their priorities using 'chiefly' to emphasize their main goals.
- This word is frequently found in formal speeches and news reports, often to clarify primary issues.
- Notable figures in history have used 'chiefly' when talking about their leadership styles, signifying what they focus on in their actions.
Cultural Usage
- Different languages have equivalents for 'chiefly', like 'principalmente' in Spanish, showing its universal appeal.
- In many cultures, leaders are expected to act chiefly in the interest of their people, highlighting a shared value in leadership.
- It's common in business settings to hear phrases like 'chiefly concerned with profit', underlining the focus on main objectives.
Origin of 'chiefly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chiefly' comes from the Middle English word 'chieff', which means 'leader' or 'main'.
- Its origins can be traced back to the Latin word 'caput', which means 'head'.
- The use of 'chiefly' dates back to the 14th century, emphasizing its long-standing presence in the English language.
The word 'chiefly' originated from the Middle English word 'chiefliche', which means 'chiefly' or 'mostly'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, it has evolved to become a commonly used adverb to indicate the primary focus or importance of something.
See also: chief.