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basically

adverb B2 Neutral

Meaning

Essentially, "basically" is used to indicate that you are simplifying a statement or summarizing the main point without unnecessary details.
💡 A common mistake is using "basically" to imply certainty when it might be better to use "essentially" or "fundamentally" for more formal contexts.

Example Sentences

Basically , do you understand what I am trying to say ?
Basically , you just need to press this button to start .
The instructions are basically the same for all models .
The report basically summarizes the main findings of the research .

Word in Context

I had a long day at work , so I decided to have a quiet evening at home . I basically wanted something simple , and I cooked a small pasta dish with vegetables . While the food was in the pan , I opened a window and listened to the sounds from the street , which sounded calm . After dinner , I sat in the living room with a book and a cup of tea , trying to relax before the next day .

Common Phrases

basically speaking basically the same basically true

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