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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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Chiefly

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "Chiefly" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is primarily or mainly the case, often in the context of describing the main focus or purpose of something. Example: "The conference will address issues that are chiefly related to climate change and sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After a short interval, another pair appeared, and constructed a habitation, chiefly with materials purloined from the other nests.

News & Media

The Guardian

She delivers certain lines with relish – when she tells her would-be suitor Gabriel Oak: "I hate to be thought men's property" and, when faced with another, William Boldwood, she murmurs pointedly: "It is difficult for a woman to define her feelings in language which is chiefly made by men to express theirs".

By the time the international team stopped, after a 5-2 win against Slovakia, Walter, still chiefly a centre-forward (as his younger brother Otmar would become), had missed only a couple of games, and scored another 19 goals.

News & Media

The Guardian

Like a pimped-up Bargain Hunt or Cash in the Attic with attitude, Storage Hunters UK is chiefly memorable for its presenter Sean Kelly's idiosyncratic auctioneering style and contestants charmless enough to make the wannabes on The Apprentice look like people you'd want to spend time with.

News & Media

The Guardian

The terrain beyond the city fringe is chiefly understood in terms of large generic units ("field", "hill", "valley", "wood").

It speaks for those who have never left, as well as those who have abandoned, limestone country: "If it form the one landscape that we, the inconstant ones,/ Are constantly homesick for, this is chiefly/ Because it dissolves in water".

Of course the rise of the Scottish Nationalists was critical, but chiefly because the idea of a Labour government dependent on the SNP fed into pre-existing fears, among English voters especially, that Labour's leader was weak and that the party could not be trusted with the economy.

That approach has been controversial with some of its Nato allies, chiefly Britain and the United States, who argue that handing over cash only encourages further abductions and can end up funding terror attacks.

News & Media

The Guardian

Before becoming Plaid's leader, Wood was chiefly famed for an episode in 2004, when she upset some members of the Welsh Assembly by referring to the Queen as "Mrs Windsor", and found herself temporarily excluded from proceedings.

News & Media

The Guardian

What this bizarre episode chiefly illustrates, I think, is the dismal editorial conditions prevailing in contemporary British (and American) publishing houses, and the desperation rife among editorial cohorts at the pressures under which they are forced to operate.

I'll never stop cycling, chiefly because it is such a blissfully solitary exercise.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is key, "chiefly" helps narrow down the focus, ensuring your audience understands what is most important.

Common error

Avoid using "chiefly" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "mostly" or "mainly" to maintain a natural tone.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

91%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The adverb "chiefly" functions to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, indicating the main or principal reason, aspect, or element. Ludwig AI confirms the proper use of the adverb and offers several real-world examples of its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chiefly" functions as an adverb to highlight the main or principal aspect of something. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread use, especially in news and formal business contexts. While "chiefly" is appropriate for professional and neutral registers, simpler alternatives may suit more casual conversations. When aiming for precision, "chiefly" is a valuable tool for pinpointing the most important element, enhancing clarity and focus in writing.

FAQs

How can I use "chiefly" in a sentence?

Use "chiefly" to indicate the primary reason or most important aspect. For example, "The project's success was "chiefly" due to the team's dedication".

What's a good substitute for "chiefly"?

Alternatives include "mainly", "primarily", or "mostly". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "chiefly" and "especially"?

"Chiefly" indicates the main or principal reason, while "especially" highlights a particular instance or case. For example, "The museum is known "chiefly" for its ancient artifacts, "especially" those from Egypt".

Is it correct to start a sentence with "chiefly"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "chiefly" is less common. It's usually placed within the sentence to modify a verb or adjective. Consider rephrasing for better flow.

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Source & Trust

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: