Practically

Practically is an English adverb with two principal uses. The first sense denotes that something is almost or nearly the case: for example, “Practically all attendees stayed until the end” or “The project is practically finished.” In this sense, it is close in meaning to almost, nearly, or virtually, sometimes with a slightly stronger sense of inevitability or common occurrence.

The second sense refers to real-world applicability: “practically speaking” or “for all practical purposes.” Here the word shifts from literal truth to what is useful or feasible in practice, rather than in theory. Examples include, “Practically speaking, we should proceed with plan B,” or “For all practical purposes, the policy is in effect.”

Etymology: Practically derives from practical, which comes from late Latin practicus, via Old French practique, from Greek praktikos, meaning “fit for action” or “deed-based.” The adverbial form emerged to distinguish practical realities from theoretical concepts.

Usage notes: Practically is common in everyday speech and informal writing. In formal contexts, longer phrases such as “for all practical purposes” or “in practical terms” are often preferred. The word can soften statements or convey approximate certainty, but it can also be used to emphasize that something is effectively true in real-world conditions.

See also: practical, practicality, practically speaking, for all practical purposes, virtually, almost.