it basically means

USAGE SUMMARY

"it basically means" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain the overall gist of a statement in simpler terms. For example, "It's a complex idea, but it basically means that the product is better value for money."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Roughly translated, Schlecker said, "it basically means 'do your best', or it can also mean 'good luck'".

Vice

After all, it secured its slot in the dictionary long before YOLO reared its head, and it basically means the same thing.

HuffPost

It basically means "Go to bed.

The New Yorker

It basically means ones that were only available for rent.

The Guardian

It doesn't mean stubborn, it basically means Scots don't like being told what to do".

Independent

"It basically means that conservatives are going to be more trusting," Mr. Moore said.

The New York Times

It basically means, dress how your mum dressed in the 70s.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

ME is much misunderstood, but it basically means that you're always tired, no matter how much you sleep or rest.

The Guardian

"Two, three in the morning, pack your things, you've got to go — it basically means you're being deported".

The New York Times

There's no official definition for the term, but it basically means untreated sherry straight from the cask.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It "basically means that big corporations can spend unlimited amounts of money influencing a campaign," she said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it basically means", ensure the explanation that follows is genuinely simpler and doesn't introduce new complexities.

Common error

Avoid oversimplifying to the point of inaccuracy. While "it basically means" aims for clarity, ensure the core meaning isn't distorted or misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it basically means" functions as an explanatory device. It serves to introduce a simplified interpretation or definition of a term, concept, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used to convey the overall gist in simpler terms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

15%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it basically means" is a commonly used phrase for simplifying complex information. As Ludwig AI suggests, it helps explain the core idea in easier terms. It's grammatically correct and appears most frequently in news and media, signaling its role in making information accessible to a wide audience. When using this phrase, be sure to maintain accuracy and avoid oversimplification. Consider alternatives like "in simpler terms" for similar effect, and adjust formality as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in simpler terms, it is

This phrase introduces a simpler explanation directly.

to put it simply, it's

A more conversational way to introduce a straightforward explanation.

it boils down to

This phrase emphasizes the core or most important aspect.

what it really means is

This phrase conveys that the explanation is the genuine meaning behind something.

it essentially signifies

This alternative uses a more formal word ("signifies") to convey the meaning.

it can be interpreted as

This option focuses on how something can be understood.

it largely implies

This option highlights the suggestive aspect of the explanation.

at its heart, it signifies

Highlights the most important or essential aspect of the meaning.

it primarily suggests

This version underscores the act of hinting at something.

it fundamentally represents

This alternative stresses the underlying nature of the meaning.

FAQs

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

You can use "it basically means" to introduce a simplified explanation of a complex concept. For example, "Quantum physics is complicated, but "it basically means" energy exists in discrete units".

What are some alternatives to "it basically means"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in simpler terms", "essentially", or "to put it simply", depending on the context.

Is "it basically means" formal or informal?

"It basically means" leans towards informal but is acceptable in many contexts. For more formal situations, consider alternatives like "it essentially signifies".

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

"It literally means" refers to the exact dictionary definition, while ""it basically means"" offers a simplified, functional understanding that might not be the precise definition.