holistically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "holistically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an approach that considers the whole system or situation rather than just individual parts. Example: "To address the issue effectively, we need to approach it holistically, taking into account all contributing factors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To verify her relationship with Invisible Children, and her knowledge of the region, Liz sent me a copy of her thesis on "stakeholder perspective on how to holistically support children who have experienced conflict in Northern Uganda", which makes frequent references to her time with the organisation.

The Guardian

One of the reasons we are not able to look in detail holistically at this is because we haven't collected the data properly.

The Guardian

"We will see our product line holistically," Mr Ballmer wrote, "not as a set of islands".So the new arrangement has a more horizontal look, with four "engineering groups" organised on functional lines.

The Economist

The Mirrlees review has some useful ideas on how to square the circle: indeed, perhaps its biggest message is that thinking holistically about the tax system helps resolve some of these conflicts.

The Economist

It is a textualist claim that construes the meaning of the ACA by reading it holistically rather than by focusing opportunistically on a single provision thereof.

The Economist

Thinking holistically, connectedly, outside of our silos, is essential.In practical terms, this probably means that critics of capitalism will be given a more respectful hearing at elite gatherings than they were in the go-go years of growth.

The Economist

Whereas Westerners tend to prefer clear cut, logical dichotomies and analyse things logically, Easterners think more holistically, where everything is combined and rules are not the final word.Elections are rules-based systems, and perhaps psychologically less appealing to the Eastern holistic way of thinking.

The Economist

There are also significant methodological questions about whether the randomized controlled trial is the best way to evaluate complementary and alternative therapies, especially when they are employed holistically.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In some cultures those suffering from illness and disease were able to make use of what was a relatively strong cradle of neighbourliness and community support, where the human condition was viewed holistically.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Whatever decision is taken, all applicants will continue to be assessed holistically".

Independent

"A really visionary politician would think more holistically about post-16 education.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "holistically", ensure that you are genuinely considering all relevant aspects of a situation, system, or problem, not just paying lip service to the idea.

Common error

Avoid using "holistically" when you simply mean "completely" or "thoroughly". "Holistically" implies a focus on the interconnectedness and interdependence of elements, not just their exhaustive coverage.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "holistically" modifies verbs, adverbs, or adjectives to indicate that something is being considered or approached from a perspective that emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of its parts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adverb "holistically" signifies considering something in its entirety, emphasizing the interconnectedness of its parts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically sound and frequently used, especially in contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias. When using "holistically", ensure you're genuinely considering all facets of the subject. Alternatives such as "comprehensively" or "systematically" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Remember, "holistically" isn't just about being thorough; it's about recognizing the relationships between elements to get a big picture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehensively

Focuses on covering all aspects of a subject, similar to "holistically" but without the emphasis on interconnectedness.

in a comprehensive manner

A more verbose way of saying "comprehensively", emphasizing thoroughness.

as a whole

Emphasizes considering something in its entirety, contrasting with analyzing individual parts.

in its entirety

Similar to "as a whole", highlighting the complete nature of what's being considered.

systematically

Implies a structured approach to considering all elements, but may lack the emphasis on interconnectedness.

integrally

Focuses on the essential and interconnected nature of the parts.

in a joined-up way

Highlights the connection between different parts of a system or plan.

all-inclusively

Implies that everything is included.

universally

Refers to something that applies to everyone.

synergistically

Highlights the combined effect of elements working together, which may be greater than the sum of their individual effects.

FAQs

How can I use "holistically" in a sentence?

Use "holistically" to describe an approach that considers the whole system or situation, rather than individual parts. For example: "We need to address the issue "holistically", considering all contributing factors."

What's a good substitute for "holistically"?

Depending on the context, you could use "comprehensively", "integrally", or "systematically". Each of these alternatives emphasizes a different aspect of considering the whole.

Is it correct to say 'view something holistically'?

Yes, it is correct. "Holistically" is an adverb that modifies the verb "view", indicating the manner in which something is being viewed – as a whole, considering all aspects and their interconnections.

What is the difference between "holistically" and "completely"?

"Completely" means fully or thoroughly, while "holistically" means considering something as a whole, with all its parts interconnected. You can address a problem completely without addressing it "holistically", and vice versa.