How to pronounce basically
Say it like BAY-sih-klee. Basically has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAY).
- BAY
- sih
- klee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Basically pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- BAYSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- sihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- kleeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of basically
American and British speakers say basically in essentially the same way: /ˈbeɪsɪkli/ in the US and /ˈbeɪsɪkli/ in the UK.
British respelling: BAY-sih-klee.
What does basically mean?
- In a fundamental, essential or basic manner.“They've added some fancy features, but it's basically still a crappy car.”
- Essentially; mostly; pretty much.
- Used to refer to the most important or fundamental point that the speaker is making or to indicate a generalization or simplification; sometimes tending towards a meaningless filler word.“I shouldn't have done it, basically.”
Where does basically come from?
From basic + -ally.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying basically
How do you pronounce basically?
Say BAY-sih-klee. The American pronunciation is /ˈbeɪsɪkli/. In British English it is /ˈbeɪsɪkli/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in basically?
Basically has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAY). Broken into parts: BAY · sih · klee.
Do Americans and Brits say basically the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈbeɪsɪkli/ and the British form is /ˈbeɪsɪkli/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.