mostly

word

/ˈmoʊsɫi/
MOHST-lee
/mˈəʊstli/
MOHST-lee

Definition

To a great degree, or for the largest part. It is used to say that something is true in most cases, but not completely or not always.

Usage & Nuances

'Mostly' is very common in spoken and written English. It often modifies adjectives, verbs, or whole statements: 'mostly finished', 'mostly eat at home', 'It’s mostly true'. It is less formal than 'predominantly' or 'largely'. Don't confuse it with 'almost': 'mostly done' means more than half or nearly all, while 'almost done' means not finished yet but very close.

Example Sentences

The class is mostly full today.

basic

We mostly eat rice at home.

basic

This book is mostly about animals.

basic

I’m mostly done, but I still need ten more minutes.

natural

The movie was mostly good, except for the ending.

natural

I mostly just wanted to say thanks.

natural