Practically Meaning
Practically Definition & Usage
In a manner that is realistic, feasible, or reasonable, often used to indicate that something is essentially true or valid, even if not strictly precise or formal.
Examples
- "Practically everyone in the office has heard about the new policy."
- "The hike was practically impossible due to the heavy rain, but we still tried."
- "She practically lives at her office, working late every night."
- "The recipe is practically foolproof—just follow the steps and you'll be fine."
- "The house was practically destroyed in the fire, but we managed to salvage a few things."
Almost or nearly; to a very high degree but not completely.
Examples
- "The movie was practically a masterpiece, despite a few small flaws."
- "He was practically jumping for joy when he heard the news."
- "The entire city was practically covered in snow after the storm."
- "It was practically impossible to concentrate with all the noise in the room."
- "By the time we arrived, the food was practically gone."
Cultural Context
The word 'practically' comes from the Latin 'practicus', meaning 'practical' or 'pertaining to practice'. Over time, it has evolved into an adverb that implies the practicality or reality of a situation, often used in casual speech to express near-completion or a high degree of similarity to something.
The Marathon Runner's Last Mile
Story
The Marathon Runner's Last Mile
As Sarah neared the last stretch of her marathon, every muscle in her body screamed for rest. The streets, lined with cheering spectators, seemed endless, but she pushed forward. Her pace was slowing, her breath shallow, but her determination was unshaken. 'I’m practically there,' she muttered to herself, each step feeling like it could be her last. In reality, it was still a mile to go, but it felt as though she were just moments from crossing the finish line. The crowd’s cheers grew louder as she turned the corner. Her exhaustion faded as adrenaline surged through her veins. 'I can do this. I’m practically unstoppable,' Sarah thought. The last mile was the hardest she’d ever run, but it was the one that mattered the most. As she crossed the finish line, her legs buckled, but a sense of triumph washed over her. 'It’s practically impossible to describe how it feels,' she said, laughing between breaths. Later that night, Sarah reflected on her journey. The race had been tough, but it was practically the best decision she had ever made. She couldn’t wait to tell her friends, though she knew she’d be the one who ‘practically’ dragged them to the next marathon. The day after, Sarah's muscles were sore, but the victory was hers. She’d pushed herself beyond the limits, proving that practically anything was possible with enough effort. But next time, she thought, maybe she would take the race 'practically' a little slower.
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