# historically

/hɪˈstɔɹɪkəɫi/ (US) · /hɪstˈɒɹɪkli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/historically
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. in the past

adverb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

adverb · CEFR B2 · Academic

looking at something from the point of view of history.

For teachers: with reference to the study of history or the historical record.

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

### 3. to an extreme degree

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

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

## Examples

- Historically, this city has always been a center for trade.
- Historically, the two nations have maintained a peaceful relationship despite their differing political systems.
- While the region is historically significant for its architectural heritage, modern urban development has begun to overshadow the ancient landmarks that once defined its skyline.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.