Another Word for Mainly: 8 Synonyms with Examples
“Mainly” means for the most part or more than anything else. Alternatives can sound more formal or more precise.
As an adverb: for the most part; chiefly
- mostly
- largely
- chiefly
- primarily
- principally
- predominantly
- generally
- for the most part
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- mostly
- The everyday equivalent; good in most contexts.
- largely
- Means to a great extent, often about causes: “largely due to cost”.
- primarily
- Formal; emphasises the first or most important purpose or cause.
- predominantly
- Formal; about the largest share of a group or mix.
- chiefly
- Slightly old-fashioned but useful in British writing.
Example sentences
- mostly: The audience was mostly students.
- largely: The delay was largely caused by the weather.
- primarily: The app is designed primarily for teachers.
- predominantly: The area is predominantly rural.
- chiefly: The company is known chiefly for its tea.
Opposite of mainly
- partly
- slightly
- rarely
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “mainly”?
The most useful alternatives are “mostly”, “largely”, “chiefly”, “primarily”, “principally”. For the main sense (for the most part; chiefly), “mostly” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “mostly” and “largely”?
mostly: The everyday equivalent; good in most contexts. largely: Means to a great extent, often about causes: “largely due to cost”.
What is the opposite of “mainly”?
Common antonyms are “partly”, “slightly”, “rarely”.