C1adverb2K

Partially

UK /["/ˈpɑːʃəli/"]/US /["/ˈpɑːrʃəli/"]/

Definition

partly; not completely

In simple words: Not completely; a little bit.

Examples

  • The road was partially blocked by a fallen tree.
  • It’s only partially true.
  • It's a partially enclosed bay where fresh and salt water mix.
  • Many of the images are partially hidden by captions.
  • The plan was only partially successful.
  • When partially cooked, pasta has a slightly transparent look.
  • Machines replaced, at least partially, the skills of human workers.

Usage notes

Use this word when something is done to some extent but not entirely. It's suitable for academic and everyday contexts but may sound too formal in casual speech.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'part' in 'partially' — it's just a part of something!

Collocations

  • partially completed
  • partially responsible
  • partially understood

Synonyms

  • partly
  • incompletely
  • somewhat
  • to some extent
  • not fully

Antonyms

  • completely
  • entirely
  • wholly

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'participle' due to similar sound.
  • Using 'partially' when 'completely' was intended.
  • Forgetting to use it with a verb or adjective.