# popularly

/ˈpɑpjəɫɝɫi/ (US) · /pˈɒpjʊləli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/popularly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

by many people or by most people. You use this when you want to say that an idea or name is common, even if it is not technically correct.

For teachers: in a manner that is widely liked, accepted, or believed by the general public. Often used to introduce a common name or belief that may differ from a formal or scientific one.

## Examples

- The plant is popularly known as 'Money Tree'.
- Although the theory was popularly accepted for decades, new evidence has recently proven it wrong.
- While historians debate the exact causes of the war, it is popularly attributed to a single event that captured the public imagination at the time.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before a past participle or an adjective.

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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.