Definitions

essentially

ADVERB

basically

Synonyms

STRONGEST

actually approximately necessarily originally permanently quite really substantially truly typically virtually

STRONG

fundamentally

WEAK

at heart at the heart of centrally characteristically chiefly determinately factually importantly in effect in essence indispensably inherently intimately intrinsically materially more or less so naturally primarily principally radically significantly vitally

Antonyms

STRONGEST

doubtfully

WEAK

apparently on the surface superficially

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.

Essentially, AI could push economics closer to its “ideal,” free of herculean assumptions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Essentially the Bank was trying to provide detail around some of the "ifs" and "maybes" to manage expectations of what outcomes are plausible if the Gulf impasse lasts several months.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Essentially, Ackman is giving the closed-end fund buyers management-company stock to compensate them for the risk that the closed-end fund trades at a discount after it starts trading.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

Essentially, we think these creatures started out their lives on four legs… they then started walking on two legs as they grew up.

From Science Daily • Apr. 23, 2026

Essentially, by the time two weeks had passed, I was the only person who was thinking about it anymore.

From "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" by A.S. King

Vocabulary lists containing essentially

Amari and the Night Brothers

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

A First Time for Everything

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Look Both Ways

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!