chiefly
adv. degree B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈtʃifɫi// UK //tʃˈiːfli// chiefly
adv. mostly or mainly, but not completely. You use it to show that something is the biggest part of a group, but there are other parts too.
adv. primarily; for the most part. Indicates that the subject or action applies to the majority of cases, while acknowledging exceptions.
The team is chiefly made up of students.
The report focuses chiefly on the economic impact of the new policy.
The region's economy is chiefly dependent on tourism, though small-scale agriculture provides a vital safety net during off-season months.
From Middle English chefly; equivalent to chief + -ly (adverbial suffix).
From chief + -ly (adjectival suffix). Piecewise doublet of chefly and headly.
Usage
Typically placed before the adjective or verb it modifies.