# partially

/ˈpɑɹʃəɫi/ (US) · /pˈɑːʃəlˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/partially
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

only in part, rather than completely. You use this when something is finished or true to some degree, but not 100%.

For teachers: to a limited degree or extent; not wholly. Often used to qualify adjectives or verbs where a binary state is not applicable.

## Examples

- The building was only partially finished when we moved in.
- The road is partially blocked by fallen trees, so drivers should expect significant delays during their morning commute.
- The researchers concluded that the experiment was only partially successful, as the chemical reaction occurred under controlled laboratory conditions but failed to replicate in a natural environment.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The work is partial done." but "The work is partially done." — Learners often use the adjective 'partial' instead of the adverb 'partially' to modify a verb or another adjective.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective or past participle it modifies.

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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.