# primarily

/pɹaɪˈmɛɹəɫi/ (US) · /pɹaɪmˈɛɹəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

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

## Definition

mostly or mainly. You use this to show the most important reason or purpose for something.

For teachers: for the most part; in the first place. Used to indicate the chief or principal factor in a situation.

## Examples

- The company sells primarily to young adults.
- The new community center is primarily used for youth sports, though it occasionally hosts local markets.
- While the author touches on several historical themes, the book is primarily concerned with the psychological impact of the war on civilian populations.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective, adverb, or prepositional phrase it modifies, or between the auxiliary and main verb.

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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.