it was basically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was basically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to summarize or simplify a statement, indicating that the essence of what you're saying is straightforward or fundamental. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I concluded that it was basically a misunderstanding between the two parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was basically empty.

The New York Times

"It was basically absolute pandemonium.

Independent

It was basically a parachute".

The New York Times

It was, basically, yeah.

The Guardian - Music

"It was basically on Kashmir," Sharif recalled.

The New Yorker

"It was basically the same as breathing.

The New York Times - Sports

"It was basically an interrogation," Tobias said.

The New Yorker

It was basically written for him.

Independent

"It was basically his slogan".

The New York Times

It was basically the truth.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"…it was basically an obligation, a demand.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was basically" to simplify complex situations, providing a clear and concise summary for your reader. It helps to convey the core idea without getting bogged down in details.

Common error

Avoid using "it was basically" too frequently in your writing. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and less sophisticated. Vary your language by using alternatives like "essentially", "fundamentally", or "in essence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was basically" functions as a qualifier or summarizer, introducing a simplified or fundamental explanation of a situation, event, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its function by showcasing examples where complex scenarios are reduced to their core elements using this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was basically" is a common and acceptable way to simplify and summarize information, primarily used in News & Media contexts. Ludwig AI validates this by providing numerous examples from reputable sources. While grammatically correct, overuse should be avoided to maintain writing sophistication. Alternatives such as "essentially" or "fundamentally" can be used for more formal tones. Using "it was basically" effectively involves providing a concise explanation, focusing on the core elements of the subject matter, and simplifying complex information for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was essentially

Replaces "basically" with "essentially", implying a focus on the core nature of something.

it was fundamentally

Substitutes "basically" with "fundamentally", highlighting the foundational aspect.

it was primarily

Replaces "basically" with "primarily", emphasizing the main aspect or reason.

it was mainly

Substitutes "basically" with "mainly", indicating the principal component.

it was largely

Replaces "basically" with "largely", suggesting the majority or greater part.

it was virtually

Substitutes "basically" with "virtually", conveying almost the same effect or result.

it was practically

Replaces "basically" with "practically", meaning in effect or reality.

it was simply

Substitutes "basically" with "simply", emphasizing a straightforward explanation.

it was in effect

Replaces "basically" with "in effect", suggesting the actual outcome or consequence.

it boiled down to

Replaces the entire phrase with a more idiomatic expression conveying the essence of the matter.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was basically" to summarize or simplify a situation. For example, "The meeting "it was basically" a review of the project's progress".

What are some alternatives to "it was basically"?

Alternatives include "it was essentially", "it was fundamentally", or "it was mainly", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was basically" considered formal or informal?

"It was basically" is generally considered informal and is more appropriate for casual conversation or less formal writing. For formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "essentially" or "fundamentally".

What's the difference between "it was basically" and "it was essentially"?

While both phrases are similar, ""it was basically"" tends to suggest a simplified explanation, whereas ""it was essentially"" implies focusing on the core nature or most important aspect.