Meaning & Definition of word "Essentially"
to
Essentially
/ɪˈsɛnʃəli/
adverb:
- 1. In essence; at its core; fundamentally.
- Example: Essentially, the project aims to improve community health.
- 2. For all practical purposes; virtually.
- Example: The two products are essentially identical in quality.
- 3. In a manner that is fundamental and intrinsic.
- Example: Essentially, his argument hinges on the concept of justice.
- 4. Used to summarize or restate something in a simpler form.
- Example: Essentially, we need more funding to continue our research.
- 5. At its most basic or inherent level.
- Example: Essentially, this method simplifies the entire process.
Etymology
From Middle French 'essentiellement', from 'essentiel', from Latin 'essentialis'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
essentially speaking:
In essence or in effect; fundamentally.
essentially the same:
Very similar in basic nature.
essentially different:
Fundamentally dissimilar.
Related Words
essential:
Necessary; extremely important.
essence:
The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.
Slang Meanings of essentially
Meaning: Basically
Example Sentence: That was essentially what I meant, just in different words.
Meaning: Pretty much
Example Sentence: We're essentially all in the same boat here.