for nearly all

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for nearly all" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something applies to almost everyone or everything within a certain context, but not necessarily to every single instance. Example: "The new policy is beneficial for nearly all employees, improving their work-life balance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Admission for nearly all events is free.

The New York Times

For nearly all of human existence, people died young.

The New Yorker

Christian denominations account for nearly all religious affiliation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They paid for nearly all of the film.

The New York Times

Bidding exceeded expectations for nearly all 380 lots.

The New York Times

FOR nearly all investors, frequent trading is a terrible proposition.

The New York Times

That's true for nearly all mammals.

BBC

Soil is the foundation for nearly all land uses.

Applied Soil Ecology

Sensitivity analyses underpin the findings for nearly all urban conditions.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Just 20 clients account for nearly all of its revenues.

Forbes

The theorem fails badly for nearly all infinitary languages.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for nearly all" to convey that a statement is generally true, but be mindful that there are exceptions. This implies a high degree of inclusivity without claiming absolute universality.

Common error

Avoid using "for nearly all" when the exceptions are significant or undermine the general statement. In such cases, consider using more specific qualifiers or providing details about the exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for nearly all" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It indicates the extent to which something applies, implying a high degree of inclusivity but not absolute universality. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for nearly all" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate a high degree of inclusivity while acknowledging exceptions. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse fields, including science, news, and encyclopedic writing. Its function is to generalize while allowing for specific deviations. When using "for nearly all", ensure that the context warrants the implication of near-universality and that any exceptions do not undermine the general statement. Related phrases such as "almost all" and "virtually all" can serve as effective alternatives, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost all

Emphasizes the closeness to totality; a slight semantic shift towards a more informal tone.

virtually all

Highlights that any exceptions are so minor they are practically nonexistent; adds an element of emphasis.

the vast majority

Focuses on the predominant number or portion, suitable when precise quantification isn't needed; shifts focus slightly from totality to prevalence.

for the most part

Indicates a general trend or condition with some exceptions; introduces a sense of generalization.

by and large

Suggests that the statement is generally true despite minor inconsistencies; introduces a folksy tone.

in almost every case

Highlights the frequency of the condition; adds a sense of specific instances.

with few exceptions

Directly acknowledges the existence of exceptions; emphasizes that the number of exceptions is small.

predominantly

Focuses on the main characteristic or occurrence; shifts from a collective to an adverbial modifier.

largely

Similar to predominantly, but can also suggest a significant degree or extent; introduces a simpler adverbial form.

in the main

Indicates that the core aspect is true, with potential for secondary variations; leans toward British English usage.

FAQs

How do I use "for nearly all" in a sentence?

Use "for nearly all" to indicate that something applies to most, but not necessarily all, members of a group or instances of a situation. For example, "The new features are beneficial "for nearly all" users".

What can I say instead of "for nearly all"?

You can use alternatives like "almost all", "virtually all", or "the vast majority" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "for nearly all" and "for all"?

"For all" implies that something applies universally without exception, while ""for nearly all"" acknowledges that there may be exceptions, making it a more nuanced and accurate choice when universality isn't absolute.

When should I use "for nearly all" vs. "for most"?

"For most" indicates a simple majority, while ""for nearly all"" suggests a much higher proportion, close to universality. Use "for most" when describing a simple majority and ""for nearly all"" when the vast majority is affected.