Words / A2

MAYNL-ee/ˈmeɪnli/

Mainly means for the most part: mainly students, used mainly for, mainly because. Mostly is a close synonym. Main is the adjective (the main entrance). Only means nothing else — stronger and narrower. Do not write mainly when you mean manly, or namely (that is to say — later).

Meaning

For the most part; more than anything else.

Examples

• “This café is mainly for office workers at lunchtime.”
• “This train is mainly empty after eight in the evening.”
• “We chose the hotel mainly because it is near the station.”

Good to know

mainly students / mainly because. Synonym: mostly. Adjective: main. Mix-up: manly.

Near in meaning

mostly

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