we basically

USAGE SUMMARY

"We basically" can be used in written English.
For example: "We basically agree that the new policy needs to be implemented immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We basically don't sleep.

The Guardian

We basically sell one model.

The New York Times

We basically do the transaction.

The New York Times

We basically missed the boat".

The New York Times

We basically have done that".

The New York Times

"We basically dominated," Cozza said.

The New York Times - Sports

We basically agree on accountability.

The New York Times

A. We basically promote education.

The New York Times

"We basically were defending anarchy," Jones recalled.

The New Yorker

"We basically live here," he said.

The New York Times

"We basically waited for the spring thaw".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we basically" to simplify complex explanations or to provide a summary of a situation. It helps to make your communication more accessible and direct.

Common error

Avoid using "we basically" excessively, as it can make your writing sound informal or simplistic in contexts that require a more professional tone. Consider using more precise language when describing actions or outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we basically" functions as a qualifier or adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is being described in a simplified or approximate manner. As seen in Ludwig, it suggests that the action or state is true in its general sense, even if not entirely precise.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we basically" serves as a versatile phrase for simplifying explanations and summarizing situations. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While effective for streamlining communication, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives in professional settings. The phrase functions as a qualifier, providing a general overview and making complex information more accessible. Understanding its nuances allows for more effective and context-appropriate writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we essentially

Replaces "basically" with "essentially", indicating the core or fundamental nature of what is being described.

we fundamentally

Substitutes "basically" with "fundamentally", emphasizing the foundational aspect of the action or state.

we largely

Uses "largely" instead of "basically", suggesting that something is true to a great extent but perhaps not entirely.

we mainly

Similar to "we primarily", "we mainly" suggests the principal component or action.

we practically

Uses "practically" instead of "basically", suggesting a real-world or functional perspective.

we virtually

Employs "virtually" in place of "basically", implying a situation that is true in effect, if not in reality.

we primarily

Replaces "basically" with "primarily", indicating that something is the main or most important factor.

we generally

Substitutes "basically" with "generally", indicating that something is true in most cases.

we almost

Replaces "basically" with "almost", indicating a near completion or approximation.

we nearly

Similar to "we almost", "we nearly" conveys a sense of close proximity to a particular state or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "we basically" in a sentence?

You can use "we basically" to simplify or summarize a situation, for example: "We basically agree on the main points of the proposal" or "We basically finished the project ahead of schedule".

What are some alternatives to "we basically"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "we essentially", "we fundamentally", or "we practically" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "we basically" in formal writing?

While "we basically" is widely understood, it might be too informal for academic or highly professional contexts. Consider using a more precise and formal alternative to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "we basically" and "we essentially"?

"We basically" is a more general term for simplification, while "we essentially" implies focusing on the core or fundamental aspects. The choice depends on whether you want to convey a general summary or emphasize the fundamental nature of something.