partially

adverb

par·​tial·​ly ˈpär-sh(ə-)lē How to pronounce partially (audio)
1
: to some extent : in some degree
was only partially successful
The building was partially destroyed in the fire.
2
archaic : in a biased manner : with partiality

Examples of partially in a Sentence

I guess I'm partially responsible for what happened. He only partially explained his reason for leaving. The building was partially destroyed in the fire.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What makes this piece especially practical is its ability to adapt to your needs throughout the day — sit upright while reading or working, recline partially for movie watching, or lie it completely flat when guests need a spot to sleep. Alexandra Kay, People.com, 25 May 2025 This is partially due to the jet stream, where warm and cold air masses separate, being set up over the same areas that'll see rain and storms for the holiday weekend. Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 24 May 2025 By 3:00 pm, the electricity supply had been partially restored, with traffic lights working again and some shops operating with minimal power. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 24 May 2025 This could be partially in reaction to erratic U.S. trade policy or manifestly irresponsible U.S. fiscal policy, both of which are deserving of markets’ skepticism. Dominic Pino, National Review, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for partially

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of partially was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Partially.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/partially. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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