this is essentially true

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is essentially true" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that a statement is almost completely true, with only minor exceptions or qualifications. For example, "I heard that the new law will help reduce taxes for working families. This is essentially true, though there are some exceptions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

You might think that after all they've accomplished, they would be ready to step back a bit, and this is essentially true.

The New York Times

This is essentially true.

TechCrunch

While this is essentially true, data can tell many tales, and the way analytics are used nowadays, those tales greatly differ, depending on the human minds that interpret them.

TechCrunch

This is essentially true for the analyses of the synonymous codon exchanges, which have no impact on function and can be stated as "neutral" at best.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This was essentially true in all but one case, indicating that once the initial escape occurred, subsequent selection (e.g., acquisition of additional mutations for stronger escape or local compensatory mutations) was not the norm (Table S5).

Plosone

This narrative is essentially true but it is no longer of interest to most Americans who are more interested in results than explanations, even when those explanations are sound, or positions, even when those positions are the right ones.

Huffington Post

This view of Leonardo is essentially true, but it does leave something out.

The Guardian - Arts

What is fascinating is that his emphatic claim that he and this book are non-ideological is essentially true.

Forbes

The same is essentially true for men.

The New York Times

The ruse works because it is essentially true.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Your basic assumption, Stuart, that every detail is carefully considered, is essentially true.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is essentially true" to acknowledge that a statement is broadly correct but might need further clarification or have minor exceptions. It's useful for nuanced discussions where absolute accuracy isn't always possible.

Common error

Avoid using "this is essentially true" when a statement is significantly flawed or misleading. It's intended for situations where the core idea holds, not to excuse substantial inaccuracies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is essentially true" functions as an assessment or acknowledgment of a statement's general validity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that something is mostly correct, even if minor inaccuracies exist. The phrase serves to qualify a statement without outright dismissing it.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

25%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

BBC

3%

The Guardian

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is essentially true" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey that a statement is largely correct with minor caveats. As Ludwig AI verifies, it acknowledges a general truth while hinting at possible exceptions or nuances. Its versatility makes it suitable for news articles, scientific papers, and everyday conversations. While perfect accuracy is always the ideal, "this is essentially true" allows for a more realistic and nuanced assessment where complete precision isn't always achievable or necessary. The phrase's frequency across varied sources highlights its acceptance and utility in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In essence, this is true

Highlights the fundamental truth of a statement, irrespective of some details.

This is largely correct

Emphasizes a high degree of accuracy but acknowledges possible inaccuracies.

This is mostly accurate

Highlights the prevalence of accuracy, suggesting minor deviations.

This is generally the case

Focuses on the overall situation being true, with occasional exceptions.

This is basically right

Indicates fundamental correctness despite potential small errors.

This holds true in most cases

Stresses truthfulness under normal circumstances, allowing for atypical exceptions.

By and large, this is correct

Conveys overall accuracy while admitting possible minor exceptions.

This is true for the most part

Suggests truthfulness regarding a significant portion or aspect.

This is accurate on the whole

Emphasizes general accuracy despite some potential inconsistencies.

The gist of it is true

Focuses on the central meaning being accurate, even if some particulars are incorrect.

FAQs

What does "this is essentially true" mean?

It means that something is mostly correct, even if not entirely accurate in every detail. It suggests that the core idea or main point is valid, despite possible minor exceptions or qualifications.

When is it appropriate to use "this is essentially true"?

It's suitable when you want to acknowledge that a statement has a basis in reality but isn't perfectly precise. Use it when you agree with the general idea but need to point out some nuances or exceptions.

What can I say instead of "this is essentially true"?

You can use alternatives like "this is largely correct", "this is mostly accurate", or "this is generally the case" depending on the specific context and level of agreement you want to convey.

Is "this is essentially true" the same as "this is absolutely true"?

No, "this is essentially true" implies some level of imperfection or exception, while "this is absolutely true" suggests complete and unwavering accuracy. They are not interchangeable.