DictionaryAI

mainly

adverb
SayMAYN-lee/ˈmeɪnli/

3 meanings of mainly

Practice

  1. 1
    adverb
    For the most part, or more than anything else.

    The class is mainly made up of beginners.

    We go to the park mainly to see the ducks.

    UsagePut it just before the part you mean: mainly because it's cheap, mainly for kids, mainly in summer.

    Similarmostly, largely, chiefly, primarily, principally

  2. 2
    adverbobsolete
    Very much, or to a high degree.
    Note
  3. 3
    adverbobsolete
    With great force or energy.
    Note

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Origin

From Middle English maynly, made from "main" plus "-ly".

Checked 6 Nov 2026 · 2 facts