ENGLISH
REFERENCE

historically

adv.
US //hɪˈstɔɹɪkəɫi// UK //hɪstˈɒɹɪkli// his·tor·i·cal·ly
  1. 1 in the past (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    used to describe what happened or was true in the past over a long time.

    referring to past events or conditions, often indicating a long-standing tradition or a consistent pattern over time.

    Example

    Historically, this valley was used for farming, but now it is full of houses.

    Example

    Historically, the two nations have maintained a complex relationship characterized by both intense economic cooperation and periodic border disputes.

    Usage

    Often placed at the beginning of a sentence to set the time frame.
  2. 2 regarding history (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    looking at something from the point of view of history.

    with reference to the study of history or the historical record.

    Example

    The book is not historically accurate, but it is a fun story.

    Example

    The film was criticized for being historically inaccurate, particularly regarding the costumes and the timeline of the royal succession.

    Usage

    Common in academic writing to distinguish a historical perspective from a modern one.
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  1. 3 to an extreme degree (adv.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    used to say that something is at its highest or lowest level ever.

    to an unprecedented degree in comparison with all previous recorded data.

    Example

    Interest rates are historically low right now, so it is a good time to buy a house.

    Example

    The region experienced historically high rainfall this autumn, leading to widespread flooding that overwhelmed the existing drainage infrastructure.

    Usage

    Frequently used with adjectives like 'low', 'high', or 'significant'.
    • unprecedentedly
    • record breakingly
Origin

From historical + -ly or historic + -ally.

Word family

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