Partially vs. Partly
What's the Difference?
Partially and partly are both adverbs that indicate something is incomplete or only to a certain extent. However, partially suggests a greater degree of incompleteness or limitation compared to partly. For example, if a task is partially completed, it implies that a significant portion of the task remains unfinished. On the other hand, if something is partly done, it suggests that only a small portion of the task has been completed. Overall, partially conveys a stronger sense of incompleteness or limitation than partly.
Comparison
| Attribute | Partially | Partly |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | to a certain extent; not completely | to some degree; not fully |
| Usage | more formal or technical | less formal or technical |
| Examples | partially completed, partially true | partly cloudy, partly sunny |
Further Detail
Definition
Partially and partly are two adverbs that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have slightly different meanings. Partially means to some extent or in part, while partly means to some degree or in some measure. Both words indicate that something is not complete or whole, but they convey this idea in slightly different ways.
Usage
Partially is typically used when referring to something that is incomplete or unfinished. For example, "The project was only partially completed." Partly, on the other hand, is used to indicate that something is only partially true or accurate. For example, "His statement was only partly correct." Both words can be used to convey a sense of incompleteness, but they are often used in different contexts.
Examples
Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between partially and partly:
- She was only partially responsible for the mistake.
- He was partly to blame for the accident.
- The results were only partially accurate.
- Her story was only partly true.
Meaning
While partially and partly are similar in meaning, there are subtle differences in how they are used. Partially tends to imply that something is incomplete or unfinished, while partly suggests that something is only partially true or accurate. Both words can be used to convey a sense of incompleteness, but they are often used in different contexts.
Usage in Context
When deciding whether to use partially or partly, it is important to consider the context in which the word is being used. If you are referring to something that is incomplete or unfinished, then partially is the more appropriate choice. If you are indicating that something is only partially true or accurate, then partly is the better option. By paying attention to the context, you can ensure that you are using the correct word in your writing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while partially and partly are often used interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings and are used in different contexts. Partially is typically used to indicate that something is incomplete or unfinished, while partly is used to suggest that something is only partially true or accurate. By understanding the subtle differences between these two words, you can use them more effectively in your writing and communication.
Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.