Definitions

mainly

[meyn-lee] / ˈmeɪn li /

ADVERB

for the most part

Synonyms

STRONG

chiefly primarily principally

WEAK

above all essentially first and foremost generally in general in the main largely most of all mostly on the whole overall predominantly substantially to the greatest extent usually

Antonyms

STRONG

secondarily

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mainly all over him as his friends and family drenched him as he made his way to the media centre after the match.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

Mainly, while all of the top candidates have impressive resumes, there’s a lack of star power that could help propel someone to the forefront.

From Los Angeles Times • May 31, 2026

Mainly, he explained to his clients what fusion is—Smashing atoms together to make a new element, which releases energy, like stars.

From Barron's • Dec. 19, 2025

Mainly the film, a gallery of soft, rounded shapes and pastel colors, is a tender exploration of wonder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

Mainly, Terryl thought: Jackie’s going to be a single mom.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel

mainly

Example Sentences

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