ideally
/ai'diəli/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: 1. In a perfect or most desirable way: Used to describe how something would be if conditions were perfect or according to an ideal standard. 2. Used to introduce a preferred or optimal situation: Often used to express a wish, recommendation, or theoretical best-case scenario.
Usage and Examples
- As an adverb describing a perfect manner:
- The system is designed to work ideally under normal conditions.
- She handled the difficult situation ideally.
- To introduce a hypothetical best case or recommendation:
- Ideally, we should finish the project by Friday.
- You would, ideally, have at least two years of experience for this role.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- Contrast with Reality: The word often implies a gap between the perfect scenario and the actual situation.
- Ideally, I'd exercise every day, but I don't always have time.
- In Theoretical or Planning Contexts: Used to outline optimal conditions or steps.
- Ideally, the process involves three distinct phases.
Variants and Related Words
- Ideal (adjective): Satisfying one's conception of what is perfect; most suitable.
- This is the ideal location for a new park.
- Ideal (noun): A standard of perfection; a principle to be aimed at.
- He has high ideals about justice.
Synonyms
- Perfectly: In a perfect manner.
- In a perfect world: Used hypothetically to describe an optimal situation.
- Optimally: In the best or most favorable way.
Antonyms
- Realistically: In a way that accepts and deals with things as they are in reality.
- Practically: In a sensible, realistic way rather than a theoretical one.
Common Phrases and Usage Notes
- The phrase "ideally suited" is common and means perfectly appropriate or matched for a purpose.
- His skills are ideally suited for this task.
- Usage Note: "Ideally" often starts a sentence to set up a desirable condition. It is less commonly used in the middle of a sentence to modify a verb directly (e.g., "She performed ideally"), where synonyms like "perfectly" or "flawlessly" might be more natural. Its most frequent use is to express a desirable but not always attainable standard.
Adverb
- in an ideal manner
- ideally, this will remove all problems