B2adverb 2K

Essentially

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɪˈsenʃəli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɪˈsenʃəli/"]/

Meaning of Essentially

when you think about the true, important or basic nature of somebody/something

In simple words: Basically or in a simple way.

Essentially in a sentence

• There are three **essentially different** ways of tackling the problem.
• The pattern is **essentially the same** in all cases.
• Essentially, what we are suggesting is that the firm needs to change.
• He was, essentially, a teacher, not a manager.
• The article was essentially concerned with her relationship with her parents *(= it dealt with other things, but this was the most important)*.

How to use Essentially

Use 'essentially' to summarize or clarify a point. It's neutral and works well in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'essence' — it means the core truth of something.

Related words

Collocations with Essentially

• essentially the same
• essentially different
• essentially means
• essentially a summary
• essentially true

Synonyms for Essentially

• basically
• fundamentally
• virtually
• practically
• mostly

Opposites of Essentially

• superficially
• accidentally
• incidentally

Common mistakes with Essentially

• Using 'essentially' at the beginning of a sentence too often.
• Confusing with 'essential' which is an adjective.
• Overusing it in formal writing where simpler words would be better.

Frequently asked questions about Essentially

What does Essentially mean?

Basically or in a simple way.

What is the definition of Essentially?

when you think about the true, important or basic nature of somebody/something

How do you use Essentially in a sentence?

There are three **essentially different** ways of tackling the problem.

Can you give another example of Essentially?

The pattern is **essentially the same** in all cases.

What are synonyms for Essentially?

Common alternatives include basically, fundamentally, virtually, practically, mostly.

What is the opposite of Essentially?

Opposite meanings include superficially, accidentally, incidentally.

What words go with Essentially?

It commonly pairs with essentially the same, essentially different, essentially means, essentially a summary, essentially true.

What are common mistakes when using Essentially?

Using 'essentially' at the beginning of a sentence too often. Confusing with 'essential' which is an adjective. Overusing it in formal writing where simpler words would be better.

How do you pronounce Essentially?

US: /["/ɪˈsenʃəli/"]/, UK: /["/ɪˈsenʃəli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Essentially?

Use 'essentially' to summarize or clarify a point. It's neutral and works well in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in very casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Essentially?

"Essentially" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.