almost solely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost solely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is primarily or predominantly the case, but not entirely so. Example: "The project was almost solely funded by private donations, with only a small portion coming from government grants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Crystal Castles' foundations are based almost solely online.

The Guardian

Entertainment was also geared almost solely toward adults.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here, her diet consists almost solely of bread and wheat.

Independent

In the grasslands, inhabitants confine themselves almost solely to agriculture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It consists almost solely of works on paper, prints, drawings watercolors and photographs.

The New York Times

For three years, he and Tina Brown communicated almost solely by fax.

The New Yorker

That is up from $2.4 million spent in 2001 almost solely on Atkins supplements.

The New York Times

Second, they chose to do this not by raising taxes, but almost solely by spending cuts.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tougher requirements, however, would have almost solely been borne by the troubled domestic auto industry.

The New York Times

Financially, the networks are on shaky ground, partly because they rely almost solely on advertising.

The New York Times

Khan campaigned almost solely in the capital, where he is Labour's most popular asset.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "almost solely" to accurately convey that something is primarily responsible or involved, but acknowledge that other factors may also contribute. This provides a nuanced and balanced view.

Common error

Avoid using "almost solely" when something is, in fact, the only factor. This diminishes your credibility. If no other factors exist, use "solely" or "exclusively" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost solely" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the extent to which something is the only factor or cause. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in qualifying the degree of influence or dependence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "almost solely" is an adverbial phrase used to indicate that something is primarily responsible or involved, but not exclusively so. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, signaling a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the degree of influence, and consider alternatives like "primarily" or "mainly" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid using it when something is, in fact, the only factor, as this diminishes your credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primarily

Focuses on the main aspect, omitting other minor contributions.

mainly

Emphasizes the principal component, downplaying secondary ones.

largely

Suggests a significant portion or influence, but allows for other factors.

predominantly

Highlights the prevailing element, acknowledging other less significant elements.

chiefly

Points out the leading cause or reason, not excluding other causes.

mostly

Indicates that the greater part is involved, but not all.

for the most part

Signals a general trend or condition, recognizing exceptions.

in the main

Highlights the principal feature or action, allowing for other minor features.

to a great extent

Shows a substantial degree, but not necessarily the entirety.

on the whole

Expresses an overall impression or effect, with some variations possible.

FAQs

How can I use "almost solely" in a sentence?

Use "almost solely" to indicate that something is mainly or primarily responsible for something else, acknowledging that other factors might also contribute. For example, "The company's success was "almost solely" due to its innovative marketing strategies."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "almost solely"?

Alternatives to "almost solely" include "primarily", "mainly", or "largely". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey about the degree of influence or responsibility.

Is it correct to say "solely" instead of "almost solely"?

While "solely" indicates that something is the only cause or factor, "almost solely" suggests it's the primary one, but not the exclusive one. The correct choice depends on whether other contributing factors exist.

How does "almost solely" differ from "partially"?

"Partially" suggests a shared responsibility or influence, whereas "almost solely" emphasizes a primary, dominant role. If the influence is shared more equally, "partially" is more appropriate.