principally
/'prinsəpəli/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: - For the most part; chiefly; primarily: Used to indicate that something is true in most cases or is the most important part or aspect.
Usage and Examples
- Adverb:
- The book is principally concerned with environmental issues. (The book deals mostly with environmental issues.)
- The funding will be used principally for research and development. (The funding will be used mainly for research and development.)
- He is principally known for his work in theoretical physics. (He is chiefly known for his work in theoretical physics.)
Advanced Usage
- "Principally" is often used in formal or academic writing to specify the primary focus, reason, or component.
- The decision was based principally on economic factors.
- It can be used to contrast a main point with secondary ones.
- The company operates principally in Asia, but also has a small presence in Europe.
Variants and Related Words
- Principal (adjective): First in order of importance; main.
- The principal reason for his success is hard work.
- Principle (noun): A fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.
- He is a man of strong moral principles.
- (Note: "Principle" is a different word with a different meaning, but it is a common source of confusion with "principal/principally".)
Synonyms
- Mainly
- Chiefly
- Primarily
- Mostly
- Predominantly
Antonyms
- Secondarily
- Subordinately
- Incidentally
Notes on Usage
- "Principally" vs. "Primarily": These are often interchangeable. However, "principally" can sometimes emphasize the fundamental or first-order importance, while "primarily" can emphasize the first in a sequence or the most basic reason.
- Position in a Sentence: "Principally" often appears before the main verb or after the verb "to be."
- They principally invest in technology stocks.
- The problem is principally one of communication.
Adverb
- for the most part
- he is mainly interested in butterflies