virtually

/'və:tjuəli/
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virtually

The city was virtually paralyzed by the transit strike.

Definition
  1. Adverb:
    • Almost entirely or nearly completely: Used to indicate that something is so close to being the case that it can be considered true for all practical purposes, though not absolutely or formally so.
    • In essence or effect, though not in strict fact: Used to describe a situation that is true in its practical consequences or results, even if not technically or literally true.
Usage Examples
  • Adverb:
    • The project is virtually complete; we just need to add the final graphics. (This means the project is almost entirely finished.)
    • After the storm, the coastal town was virtually cut off from the mainland. (This means the town was, in effect, isolated, even if some minor access remained.)
    • Virtually all participants agreed with the new proposal. (This means nearly every single participant agreed.)
    • With the new evidence, his argument is virtually unassailable. (This means his argument is so strong it is effectively impossible to challenge.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Virtually impossible/identical/unknown": Used to emphasize that something is so close to a state that the difference is negligible.

    • The two signatures are virtually identical; it's hard to tell them apart.
    • Before the internet, such information was virtually inaccessible to the public.

  • In computing and technology: Often used to describe something that exists in effect, but not in physical form (e.g., virtual reality, virtual memory). However, when used alone as "virtually," it typically retains the core meaning of "almost" or "in effect."

    • The software creates a virtually unlimited workspace on your screen.
Variants and Related Words
  • Virtual (adjective): Existing in essence or effect though not in actual fact or form.
    • She is the virtual leader of the team, making all the key decisions.
  • Virtuality (noun): The state of being virtual.
Synonyms
  • Practically: In a practical manner; almost.
  • Essentially: Regarding the basic nature of something; in essence.
  • Nearly: Very close to; almost.
  • All but: Very nearly.
  • Effectively: In such a manner as to achieve a desired result; in effect.
Antonyms
  • Actually: As the truth or facts of a situation; really.
  • Literally: In a literal manner or sense; exactly.
  • Completely: Totally; entirely.
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • "Virtually speaking": Used to qualify a statement, indicating it is true in a practical or effective sense.
    • Virtually speaking, we have already won the contract; the signing is just a formality.
  • "A virtual [noun]": A common construction meaning "for all practical purposes, a..."
    • His constant guidance made him a virtual mentor to the new employees.
virtually

The city was virtually paralyzed by the transit strike.

Adverb
  1. (of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but
    • the job is (just) about done
    • the baby was almost asleep when the alarm sounded
    • we're almost finished
    • the car all but ran her down
    • he nearly fainted
    • talked for nigh onto 2 hours
    • the recording is well-nigh perfect
    • virtually all the parties signed the contract
    • I was near exhausted by the run
    • most everyone agrees
  2. in essence or effect but not in fact
    • the strike virtually paralyzed the city
    • I'm virtually broke

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