What does partially mean?
Partially means to some extent, but not completely, and is used when a situation, condition, or claim applies only in part. It can describe an incomplete action, such as a project that is partially finished, or limit the force of a statement, as in saying that an account is partially accurate. The adverb often corresponds closely with the adjective 'partial': a partial result is one achieved only in part, while a partially completed task remains unfinished. Although 'partly' is a frequent synonym, 'partially' commonly gives stronger emphasis to incompleteness or limitation. It is appropriate in formal, professional, and everyday contexts alike, including descriptions of law, weather, medicine, finance, education, and everyday circumstances. Its usefulness lies in making the scope of a claim exact: it can acknowledge that something is true or possible while avoiding the suggestion that it is wholly so.
adverbTo some extent, but not completely. It can indicate that an action or condition is incomplete or that something is only partly true.
- To some extent but not completely.
- In an incomplete or limited degree.
"The damaged road was partially repaired before heavy rain made further work impossible."
"The witness's account was only partially consistent with the available evidence."
"Fog partially obscured the road, making the journey slower than usual."
Partially can mean both 'not entirely' and 'to some degree'—two ideas that can change the meaning of a sentence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does partially come from?
The adverb was formed in English during the late 16th century from 'partial' and the suffix '-ly'. 'Partial' comes through French from Latin 'partialis', a derivative of 'pars', meaning 'part'. The same Latin root underlies several related English words, including 'portion', 'partition', and 'party'.
Related word forms
How partially is actually used
Neutral in register. It is especially common in formal and technical contexts, while 'partly' is often more conversational. The adverb may qualify a statement of truth, responsibility, visibility, completion, or participation.
Easily confused with partially
Both mean 'to some extent', but 'partly' more often contrasts separate components or portions, whereas 'partially' often emphasizes incompleteness or a limited degree.
'Partial' is an adjective describing something limited or incomplete, while 'partially' is the adverb explaining the degree to which something applies.