popularly

Popularly is an English adverb formed from the adjective popular. It describes actions, beliefs, opinions, or practices that are shared by many people or that align with public opinion. It is used to indicate that something is accepted, believed, or performed by a broad segment of a population, rather than being based on criteria such as authority or expertise.

Etymology and form: The adverb derives from popular, which comes from Latin popularis via Old French populaire, with the English suffix -ly creating an adverb. The word has appeared in literary, journalistic, and scholarly writing to denote reception by the public or widespread agreement.

Usage and nuance: Popularly often modifies verbs and adjectives to signal broad acceptance or belief, as in "The plan was popularly supported by voters" or "The theory is popularly believed to be true." It can describe actions done in a way that is widely liked, but this sense is less common and can be ambiguous if the context does not address public opinion.

Alternatives and contrasts: Related terms include popularity (noun), popular (adjective), and popularly used (adverbial collocations). The use of popularly emphasizes public opinion or broad acceptance rather than intrinsic merit.

Examples:

The reform was popularly supported by the electorate.

The myth is popularly believed to have originated in the 18th century.

The term is popularly used to describe mainstream ideas.