it basically is

USAGE SUMMARY

"it basically is" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to emphasize the simplicity or essential nature of something. It can also be used to confirm or restate a previous statement. Example: "The key to a successful business is excellent customer service. It basically is the foundation of any company." In this example, "it basically is" is used to emphasize the essential role of customer service in a successful business.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Glover grinned and said, "It basically is".

The New Yorker

It basically is the book "How to Get Up and Get Dressed," but it works.

The New Yorker

Swift's prize was called the Pinnacle Award, and if it sounds a bit made-up, that's because it basically is.

The New Yorker

"It basically is unheard of, but I never lost a moment of sleep over it," Mr. Lauerman said.

The New York Times

If you don't understand what that means, it basically is the money a bank will save on taxes when it earns profits in the future.

The New York Times

What the critics of traditional, government-run Medicare actually find wanting in traditional Medicare is that it basically is classic indemnity insurance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

It basically was recorded with Pete Pritchard and Richard Newman.

Huffington Post

And that was what it basically was.

Vice

And that, basically, is it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It would basically be impossible".

The New York Times

It's basically being a matchmaker...

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it basically is" to simplify complex concepts, making them easier for your audience to understand. For example: "Quantum physics is complex, but "it basically is" the study of the very small."

Common error

While versatile, "it basically is" can sound too informal for academic papers or professional reports. Opt for more precise language like "it fundamentally is" or "it essentially is" in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it basically is" functions as a clarifier or simplifier, used to explain something in more accessible terms. As Ludwig AI indicates, it emphasizes the essential nature of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it basically is" is a versatile phrase used to simplify explanations and draw equivalences. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and emphasizes its role in highlighting the essential nature of something. While grammatically correct and common in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, it should be used cautiously in formal writing, where more precise language may be preferred. By considering context and audience, writers can effectively leverage "it basically is" to enhance clarity and understanding. Remember to favor stronger synonyms such as "it is essentially" or "it is fundamentally" when formality is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is essentially

Replaces "basically" with "essentially", maintaining the core meaning of fundamental equivalence.

it is fundamentally

Substitutes "basically" with "fundamentally", emphasizing the foundational nature of the equivalence.

it's simply

Replaces the entire phrase with "it's simply", conveying a sense of ease and lack of complication.

it's mainly

Substitutes "basically" with "mainly", highlighting the primary characteristic of something.

it's primarily

Replaces "basically" with "primarily", focusing on the main aspect.

it boils down to

Replaces the entire phrase, indicating that the essence of something can be reduced to a simpler concept.

in essence, it is

Replaces "basically" with "in essence", adding a touch of formality while retaining the core meaning.

it's in effect

Replaces "basically" with "in effect", suggesting the practical outcome or result.

it amounts to

Replaces the entire phrase, indicating the end result or consequence.

it's more or less

Suggests an approximation or near equivalence, adding a slight degree of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "it basically is" in a sentence?

Use "it basically is" to simplify explanations or equate something to a more understandable concept. For example, "This new technology is complicated, but "it basically is" a sophisticated calculator".

What phrases are similar to "it basically is"?

Alternatives include "it is essentially", "it is fundamentally", or "it's simply". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it basically is" too informal for professional writing?

It can be. In formal contexts, consider using more precise and formal alternatives like "it is fundamentally" or "it is essentially".

What's the difference between "it basically is" and "it is literally"?

"It basically is" implies a simplification or core essence, while "it is literally" asserts something is exactly as stated, without exaggeration. Use "it basically is" when explaining something in simpler terms and "it is literally" when emphasizing an exact correspondence.