partially

Partially is an adverb used to indicate that something is true to a limited extent, not completely. It signals incompleteness, gradation, or provisional status and is common in both everyday and formal writing. It can modify adjectives, verbs, or entire phrases, as in partially cloudy, partially funded, or the theory is only partially supported by the data. The word often marks a contrast with wholly, completely, or fully.

Etymology and form: Partially is derived from the adjective partial, which comes from Latin partialis, from pars meaning part. The adverbial suffix -ly was added to form an adverb in Old or Middle English, yielding partially by the 15th century. The sense aligns with “to a part” rather than to the whole.

Usage and nuance: Partially conveys degree rather than absolutes. It is useful when describing progress, honesty, or observability without claiming perfection or totality. In science and mathematics, phrases such as partially observable or partially filled describe conditions that are not fully determined or complete. In everyday language, it can soften statements or acknowledge exceptions and caveats.

Alternatives and considerations: Depending on context, partially may be replaced by somewhat, moderately, incompletely, or tentatively to convey similar meaning with different emphasis. The choice of word can affect perceived certainty, precision, and tone.