adverb
primarily
Mainly or most importantly.
The clinic primarily serves families who live in this neighborhood.
Etymology
Primarily derives from primary, meaning first or chief. The adverb makes that priority a matter of importance or predominant contribution.
More examples
- I use my laptop primarily for work.
- The delay is primarily due to bad weather.
- We are primarily concerned about everyone's safety.
Forms
primary adjective — Most important or first in order.
Similar words
- mostly
- Emphasizes the greater part or proportion rather than importance.
- principally
- More formal; emphasizes the chief reason, purpose, or source.