What does structurally mean?
“Structurally” is an adverb meaning in relation to the way something is organized, built, arranged, or constituted. It is used frequently in technical and analytical contexts to describe the underlying framework of a building, institution, language, argument, or other system. For example, a structure may be structurally sound even if it is not attractive, or two arguments may be structurally similar despite discussing different subjects. The word often signals attention to basic design or organization rather than surface details. Its adjective form, “structural,” is common in phrases such as “structural integrity” and “structural change.” Together, these forms are useful for explaining relationships between parts and the overall framework that gives them their function.
adverbIn a way that relates to the way something is organized, arranged, or built. It can also mean with reference to the underlying structure of a language, argument, organization, or other system.
- In or with respect to the way something is organized, arranged, built, or constituted.
- In or with respect to the underlying form or organization of a language, argument, institution, or other system.
"The two buildings are structurally similar, although they serve very different purposes."
"The bridge was closed after engineers discovered that it was not structurally safe."
"Although the two texts differ in subject matter, they are structurally similar."
“Structurally” shifts the focus from what something does to the underlying framework that makes it work.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does structurally come from?
“Structurally” derives from the adjective “structural,” which comes from “structure.” “Structure” comes from Latin structura, a noun meaning “a building, arrangement, or construction,” from struere, “to build” or “to heap up.” The Latin root is also reflected in related English words such as “construction” and in “structuralism,” the academic approach that analyzes underlying systems and relationships.
Related word forms
How structurally is actually used
Common in formal and technical writing, especially in engineering, architecture, linguistics, and analysis. It is generally more precise than simply saying “in structure,” and it may indicate that the point concerns a basic organizational framework rather than a temporary feature.
Easily confused with structurally
“Structurally” is the adverb describing how something is organized or constructed, while “structural” is the adjective describing a structure or something affecting it.