Definition

1. Adverb:
   • For all practical purposes; virtually: Used to indicate that something is so nearly true that for most purposes it can be considered true, though not completely or technically.
   • In a practical manner; in a way that is concerned with actual use or action: Relating to what is real, useful, or effective rather than theoretical.
   • Almost; nearly: Used to indicate that something is very close to being the case.

Examples of Usage

• For all practical purposes; virtually:
  • The project is practically finished; we just need to add the final graphics.
  • He knew practically everyone in the small town.
• In a practical manner:
  • She approached the problem very practically, focusing on immediate solutions.
  • The course is designed to teach students how to think practically about business challenges.
• Almost; nearly:
  • I've practically memorized the entire manual.
  • It's practically impossible to get a reservation at that restaurant.

Advanced Usage

• "Practically speaking": Used to introduce a statement that considers the real situation rather than theory or ideals.
  • Theoretically, the plan is sound, but practically speaking, we don't have the budget for it.
• Used to soften a statement, making an absolute claim less absolute.
  • You can find practically anything you need online these days.

Variants and Related Words

• Practical (adj): Concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas; likely to succeed or be effective in real circumstances.
  • She has a very practical approach to management.
• Practicability (n): The quality of being able to be done or put into practice successfully.
  • The committee questioned the practicability of the proposed schedule.

Synonyms

• Virtually: For the most part; almost entirely.
• Essentially: Used to emphasize the basic, fundamental, or intrinsic nature of a person or thing.
• Nearly: Very close to; almost.
• In effect: In practice, if not formally.

Related Phrases

• For all practical purposes: In terms of the actual effect or result.
  • The old system is, for all practical purposes, obsolete.
• In practical terms: Considering the real situation and its requirements or consequences.
  • In practical terms, moving the office would be too expensive.

Related Idioms

• As good as: Virtually the same as.
  • The deal is as good as done. (This is similar in meaning to "practically done.")
• All but: Very nearly.
  • The task was all but impossible. (This is similar in meaning to "practically impossible.")

Adverb

1. (degree adverb used before a noun phrase) for all practical purposes but not completely
   • much the same thing happened every time
   • practically everything in Hinduism is the manifestation of a god
2. in a practical manner
   • practically orientated institutions such as business schools
   • a brilliant man but so practically inept that he needed help to cross the road safely
3. almost; nearly
   • practically the first thing I saw when I got off the train
   • he was practically the only guest at the party
   • there was practically no garden at all