What does practically mean?
Practically is an adverb commonly used in two related but distinct ways. In its principal sense, it describes something done according to real conditions, practical requirements, or what can actually be achieved: a solution may be practically workable even if it is not perfect in theory. It can also mean almost or virtually, as in saying that a difference is practically insignificant; this use is especially informal. The meaning of “in effect” overlaps with the first sense, as when a person says that a rule is practically ignored because it is rarely enforced. A reader should consider context carefully: “practically impossible” usually describes a near impossibility, while “practically speaking” introduces a qualification based on real circumstances. The word is valuable because it bridges technical discussion and ordinary speech, allowing speakers to distinguish ideal or theoretical standards from what happens in practice.
adverbIn a way that relates to actual practice, conditions, or feasibility. In informal use, it can also mean almost or virtually.
- In a way that is based on practical considerations, actual conditions, or what is feasible.
- Almost; virtually, especially in informal usage.
- If the practical circumstances allow it; in effect.
"With adequate planning, the project is practically achievable within the available time."
"The repair reduced the damage to practically nothing."
"Practically speaking, a smaller garden would be much easier to maintain."
One word can mean “in real terms” or “almost” without changing its grammar; context decides which meaning is meant.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does practically come from?
The word combines practical with the adverb-forming suffix -ly. Both elements ultimately derive from Latin forms associated with practicare, “to practice,” and the Greek root underlying the sense of action or practical activity.
Related word forms
How practically is actually used
The sense meaning “in real-world terms” is common in formal and technical contexts. The sense meaning “almost” is more informal and is especially frequent in British and North American speech; context is needed because a statement can be literally or practically true without being completely true.
Easily confused with practically
Practical is an adjective describing something concerned with real-world use or feasibility, while practically is an adverb describing manner or, informally, near-total degree.