it mostly means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it mostly means" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining the general interpretation or significance of a term or concept, often in a context where nuances are involved. Example: "In the context of this discussion, it mostly means that we should prioritize collaboration over competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I suspect it mostly means that Shulevitz is unschooled in their offerings.

The New York Times

It mostly means shifting more of the costs to those who can afford them, reconciling the programs to the changes in how we live, and using the government's power to help drive down the costs of medical care.

The New York Times

No, what it mostly means is that Gilmour concentrates on things like Kipling's relations with imperial proconsuls like Cecil Rhodes and his belief that the Treaty of Versailles had not been nearly punitive enough; his friendships with press lords and parliamentary leaders; and his dying sense that the next generation was going to "give it all away".

The New York Times - Books

For me it mostly means going out less, although at this point I don't really think about it much.

HuffPost

Aside from being super confused when they're born, it mostly means that you become highly adept at taking advantage of them, quickly and often.

Huffington Post

It mostly means making sure that you're eating a lot of different foods in healthy proportions.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It mostly meant chocolate, free calculators, and embarrassingly naive marketing campaigns.

Vice

By other people, obviously, I mostly mean me.

The Guardian

And by playing I mostly mean ignoring.

TechCrunch

I say "ups" – I mostly mean downs.

Vice

But that's not the point — instead, like much of what Disney builds in its incredible research labs, it's mostly meant for their own uses.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it mostly means", ensure that the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the primary meaning you are conveying. Be specific rather than vague.

Common error

Avoid using "it mostly means" when the meaning is definitively exclusive. This phrase implies that there could be other valid interpretations, even if less common. Do not use "it mostly means" when a more direct and exclusive phrasing would be more precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it mostly means" functions as an explanatory device, clarifying the principal interpretation of a concept or term. As seen in Ludwig, it's used to convey the most common or relevant understanding, recognizing that other interpretations might exist.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it mostly means" is a useful phrase for conveying the primary or most common interpretation of a term or concept, particularly when there may be multiple interpretations. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, often found in news and general explanations. However, it's crucial to ensure that using "it mostly means" is appropriate for the context, avoiding overstatement or vagueness. For formal writing, alternatives like "it primarily signifies" may be more suitable. The selection of authoritative sources underscores the phrase's acceptance in reputable publications, while guidance cautions against misapplication. While the phrase is deemed valid, its frequency may be limited compared to other more ubiquitous options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it primarily signifies

Focuses on the main significance or denotation of something.

it largely implies

Highlights the overall implication or suggestion conveyed.

it mainly indicates

Emphasizes the chief indication or pointing to something.

it essentially suggests

Presents the core suggestion or proposition being made.

it generally implies

Focuses on the typical implication or common understanding.

it commonly denotes

Highlights the usual or widespread denotation of a term.

it typically represents

Stresses the usual or standard representation.

it frequently implies

Indicates the frequent or recurrent implication.

it often suggests

Emphasizes the frequent suggestion or hint.

it broadly indicates

Highlights the wide-ranging indication or pointing to something.

FAQs

What does "it mostly means" imply about alternative interpretations?

Using "it mostly means" suggests that while there is a primary interpretation, other less common or nuanced interpretations might also exist. It acknowledges the possibility of multiple meanings.

How can I use "it mostly means" in a sentence effectively?

Start by stating a concept or term, then use "it mostly means" to introduce the most common or relevant understanding of that concept within the given context. For example, "In this discussion, sustainable development "it mostly means" balancing economic growth with environmental protection".

What are some alternatives to "it mostly means" for formal writing?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "it primarily signifies", "it largely implies", or "it mainly indicates" for a more sophisticated tone.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "it mostly means"?

Avoid using "it mostly means" when the concept has a single, universally accepted definition. It is best suited for situations where the meaning is subject to interpretation or context.