# practically

/ˈpɹæktɪkəɫi/ (US) · /pɹˈæktɪkli/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. almost or nearly

adverb · CEFR B2

almost or very nearly. You use this to show that something is true for all practical purposes.

For teachers: used as a degree modifier meaning virtually or almost entirely. It indicates that while a statement might not be technically absolute, it is true in effect.

- I have practically finished my homework, so I can go out now.
- By the time the rescue team arrived, the old wooden structure had practically collapsed under the weight of the heavy snow.

### 2. in a realistic way

adverb · CEFR B2

in a way that is sensible, useful, or likely to work in real life.

For teachers: in a manner relating to practice or action rather than theory; realistically or feasibly.

- We need to look at this problem practically if we want to solve it today.
- The architect approached the renovation practically, focusing on structural integrity before considering the aesthetic details of the facade.

### 3. in reality

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

how something actually works in real life, even if the rules say something else.

For teachers: in effect or in actuality, often contrasted with what is official, formal, or theoretical.

- The two companies are practically the same, as they share the same owner.
- Although the two nations are technically at peace, the border has been practically closed to all civilian traffic for over a decade.

## Examples

- The room was practically empty when I arrived.
- After the long hike, my water bottle was practically empty and my legs felt like lead.
- While the two software versions are technically different, they are practically identical for the average user who only requires basic word processing functions.

---

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.