practically
UK[ˈpræktɪkli]US[ˈpræktɪkli]
adv
in a way that is sensible and realistic, based on what is possible or effective rather than theories or ideas.
adv
almost; very nearly.
Morpheme Breakdown
practic
al
ly
practic
act, do
al
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'practically' has a layered history, building upon the core concept of action. its foundation lies in the greek 'praktikos', meaning 'fit for action or business', which passed into latin as 'practicus'. the addition of the latin adjectival suffix '-al' created 'practical', meaning 'of or concerned with actual use or action'. finally, the old english adverbial suffix '-ly' was appended, converting the adjective into an adverb. this etymological journey from 'action' to 'in a manner concerned with action' logically explains its primary meaning of doing things in a sensible, realistic way. the secondary meaning of 'almost' is a figurative extension from the late 19th century, suggesting something is so close to being real or complete that it can be treated as such for practical purposes.
Analysis
Structure: practic (act, do) + al (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
practic originates from latin 'practicus', meaning 'concerned with action', from greek 'praktikos'. al is a latin-derived suffix forming adjectives meaning 'of or pertaining to'. ly is an old english-derived suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.
Examples
she solved the problem very practically, using materials she already had at home.
the project is practically finished; we just need to check a few details.
he's practically a member of the family after all these years.