practically
gb/pɹˈæktɪkəli/ us/pɹˈæktɪkəli/
B1
English
~ 1000
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B1
property
1
Almost, but not entirely
Used when something is very close to being true or finished, but not 100%.
Usage pattern:
practically [adjective/adverb/verb phrase]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'practically' with 'practice' or 'practical', which have different meanings.
Synonyms
almost (Most common equivalent; interchangeable in most contexts.)
|
virtually (Slightly more formal; often used in written English.)
Antonyms
completely (Opposite in meaning, indicating totality rather than near-totality.)
Collocations
practically impossible
|practically empty
|practically finished
|practically speaking
Themes
daily life
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The store was practically empty by the time we arrived.
- She’s practically finished with her project.
- It’s practically impossible to park here on weekends.
- They’re practically neighbors, living just two houses apart.
Learner examples
- The room is practically empty.
- He is practically ready to go.
- It is practically dark outside.
- She is practically done with her homework.
adverb
B2
property
2
In a realistic, sensible manner
In a way that is about real situations and what works best.
Usage pattern:
think/act/practically
Common mistake:
Some learners confuse this sense with 'almost', but here it means 'in a sensible way'. Context usually clarifies the difference.
Synonyms
realistically (Focuses on being true to real conditions or facts.)
|
sensibly (Focuses on using good judgment and logic.)
Antonyms
unrealistically (Opposite in meaning, indicating ideas or actions not based on reality.)
Collocations
think practically
|approach practically
|deal with practically
Themes
problem solving
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- We need to think practically about how to solve this issue.
- She approached the problem practically, focusing on the available resources.
- Practically speaking, we can’t afford a new car right now.
Learner examples
- We must think practically about the plan.
- He solved the problem practically.
- Practically speaking, we should wait until next week.
Grammar
Dictionary form
practically
IPA
GB/pɹˈæktɪkəli/
US/pɹˈæktɪkəli/
Syllables & stress
prac - tic - ally (3 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (prac)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: practically
- Plural: practicallies
Word family
Forms
practicallies
noun
Related words
practicality
noun B2
practitioner
noun B2
Negative and opposite forms
impractical
adjective B2
impractically
adverb
Advanced or less common
practicable
adjective C1
Expressions
practically speaking
1/pɹˈæktɪkəli spˈikɪŋ/
fixed phrase
Considering things realistically
Used before saying what is true in real life situations, even if it is different from theory.
Examples
- Practically speaking, we don't have enough time to finish today.
- Practically speaking, that plan will cost too much.