Mostly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
mostly
[หmษสstli ]
Definitions
in general
Mainly or chiefly; for the most part.
Synonyms
chiefly, largely, mainly, primarily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mostly |
Used when talking about the largest part of something, but not all of it. It's common in informal and everyday conversations.
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| mainly |
Used to highlight the most significant part or reason, especially in a context where there are other contributing factors.
|
| chiefly |
Used in more formal contexts to mean the most important or primary factor.
|
| largely |
Used to indicate that something is true to a great extent but not entirely. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
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| primarily |
Used to emphasize the most important reason or aspect of something. It is often used in more formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Mostly, I enjoy spending time outdoors.
- She mostly works from home, but occasionally goes into the office.
- He is mostly a vegetarian, but will eat meat on special occasions.
usually
Generally; commonly; ordinarily.
Synonyms
commonly, generally, ordinarily, typically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mostly |
Used when talking about the largest part of something or the main aspect.
|
| generally |
Used when speaking about general rules or facts, and not about specific details.
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| commonly |
Used when referring to something that happens often and is widely accepted or used.
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| ordinarily |
Used when describing what normally or usually happens, but still allowing for exceptions.
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| typically |
Used when describing an action or behavior that is usual or expected.
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Examples of usage
- She mostly arrives on time for meetings.
- I mostly prefer tea over coffee in the mornings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Language Usage
- 'Mostly' is often used in conversational English to soften statements, making them less absolute โ for example, saying 'I mostly enjoy classical music' rather than 'I only enjoy classical music.'
- In mathematics, โmostlyโ can imply a statistical average, indicating that a quantity is greater than the midpoint.
- The adverb can also reflect subjective perceptions, as in 'The weather is mostly sunny,' leaving room for some variability.
Cultural Context
- In pop culture, 'mostly' tends to signal trends or preferences, like 'I mostly watch superhero movies' indicating a strong interest, but not an exclusive one.
- The phrase 'mostly harmless' from Douglas Adams' 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' humorously presents the idea of incompleteness or uncertainty.
- In everyday conversation, expressing something that is 'mostly true' highlights nuances in truthfulness, acknowledging exceptions.
Psychology
- Using 'mostly' in statements can reflect ambivalence or indecision, common in human thought processes.
- People may use 'mostly' to create psychological safety in discussions by allowing space for disagreement.
- In decision-making, applying a mostly perspective can help individuals feel less pressured to commit fully, easing anxiety.
Origin of 'mostly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'mลd,' meaning 'manner' or 'way,' combined with the suffix '-ly' which indicates a state or quality.
- In the 15th century, the term began to gain its modern sense of indicating a majority or main part.
- Related words in English include 'most' and 'more,' showing a consistent pattern of comparison.
The word 'mostly' originated from the Middle English word 'mosteliche', which means 'chiefly'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over the years, it has evolved to become a common adverb used to indicate something that occurs mainly or generally.