A2adverb1K

Mostly

UK /["/ˈməʊstli/"]/US /["/ˈməʊstli/"]/

Definition

mainly; generally

In simple words: mainly or for the most part

Examples

  • The sauce is mostly cream.
  • We're mostly out on Sundays.
  • Revenue grew by 18 per cent, **mostly due to** the opening of 33 new stores.
  • The paintings **consist mostly** of still lifes.
  • Disposal of hazardous waste is mostly handled by the public sector.
  • Here the vines are mostly grown at below 100 metres above sea level.
  • Mostly he eats in a restaurant.
  • People mostly grew their own vegetables.
  • She mostly calls me by my last name.

Usage notes

Used to describe something that is true for the majority or the largest part. Suitable in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid using in highly technical or specialized discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'mo' in 'mostly' as 'more'. Mostly means more than half.

Collocations

  • mostly true
  • mostly harmless
  • mostly used
  • mostly ignored
  • mostly finished

Synonyms

  • mainly
  • largely
  • primarily
  • predominantly
  • chiefly

Antonyms

  • rarely
  • seldom
  • never

Common mistakes

  • Using 'mostly' instead of 'most' when comparing amounts.
  • Confusing 'mostly' with 'mostly not' to communicate disagreement.
  • Using 'mostly' in place of 'generally' or 'usually' without appropriate context.