B1adverb2K

Mainly

UK /["/ˈmeɪnli/"]/US /["/ˈmeɪnli/"]/

Definition

more than anything else; also used to talk about the most important reason for something

In simple words: mostly or for the most part

Examples

  • She mainly works from home to achieve a better work-life balance.
  • The concert mainly featured local artists, which was a nice surprise.
  • He is mainly interested in science fiction novels, but he occasionally reads history.
  • I mainly focus on my studies during the week, but I relax on weekends.
  • The weather is mainly sunny, with only a few clouds in the sky.

Usage notes

Use 'mainly' in sentences to indicate the primary focus or majority aspect. It fits well in formal and informal contexts but avoid it in casual speech where shorter alternatives may suffice.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'main' like the main event; 'mainly' shows what the focus is.

Collocations

  • mainly for
  • mainly because
  • mainly concerned
  • mainly composed
  • mainly focused

Synonyms

  • chiefly, primarily

Antonyms

  • rarely
  • seldom
  • occasionally

Common mistakes

  • Using 'mainly' instead of 'main' as an adjective
  • Confusing 'mainly' with 'mainly' as a conjunction
  • Placing 'mainly' at the beginning of the sentence incorrectly