this is basically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is basically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a simplified explanation or summary of a more complex idea or situation. Example: "This is basically how the process works: you start by gathering the necessary materials, then you follow the steps outlined in the manual."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is basically true.

The New York Times

This is basically a joke.

The New York Times

This is basically my room".

The New York Times

This is basically tied folks!

The Guardian - Sport

This is basically a sledgehammer.

The New York Times

"This is basically my job.

The Guardian

This is basically your Christmas.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is basically dystopian Harry Potter, right?

The New Yorker

This is basically three federations coming together.

The New York Times

This is basically not about his wife".

The New York Times

"This is basically a Band-Aid".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is basically", ensure that the simplification doesn't sacrifice accuracy. Aim to provide a digestible explanation without distorting the core facts.

Common error

Avoid using "this is basically" to oversimplify complex topics to the point of inaccuracy. While simplification is useful, ensure the core meaning and important nuances aren't lost, which can mislead or misinform the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is basically" functions as a discourse marker that introduces a simplified explanation or approximation. According to Ludwig AI, it signals to the reader that the following statement is a general summary, rather than a comprehensive analysis. As Ludwig examples show, this pattern is common in explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

24%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is basically" serves as an introductory remark to offer a simplified explanation, summarizing a concept or situation in an easily understandable manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While incredibly common in diverse contexts, including News & Media and Academia, as shown by Ludwig's analysis, it's crucial to avoid oversimplification and maintain accuracy when using this phrase. Consider alternative expressions like "essentially this is" or "in simple terms this is" for more formal settings to ensure the register aligns with the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essentially this is

Replaces "basically" with "essentially", offering a more formal tone while retaining the meaning of summarizing the core idea.

in essence this is

Similar to "essentially this is", but emphasizes the fundamental nature of the explanation.

at its core this is

Highlights the most important or fundamental aspect of something.

in simple terms this is

Explicitly indicates a simplification of a complex topic, suitable for a less technical audience.

putting it simply this is

Similar to "in simple terms this is", but emphasizes the act of simplification by the speaker.

in other words this is

Signals a rephrasing of a previous statement for clarity.

to put it another way this is

Offers an alternative phrasing to clarify a concept, similar to "in other words this is".

what this amounts to is

Indicates the final outcome or result of a process or situation.

the bottom line is this is

Focuses on the most important and decisive point or factor.

the upshot of this is

Highlights the concluding result or consequence of something.

FAQs

What does "this is basically" mean?

The phrase "this is basically" introduces a simplified explanation or summary of something. It indicates that the following statement is a general overview, rather than a detailed account.

What are some alternatives to "this is basically"?

You can use alternatives like "essentially this is", "in simple terms this is", or "at its core this is" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "this is basically"?

The phrase "this is basically" is generally considered informal. For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "essentially this is" or "in essence this is".

When is it appropriate to use "this is basically" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "this is basically" when you want to provide a simplified explanation or summary. However, avoid using it in formal writing where precision is critical.