básicamente
/ˌbasikaˈmente/
The English word "basically" is translated into Spanish as básicamente.
básicamente is used to describe something in a fundamental or basic manner.
Meaning: in a fundamental or basic manner (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the adjective básico (basic) and the adverbial suffix -mente (equivalent to the English "-ly").
How does it change in a sentence?
Adverbs ending in -mente are generally invariable, which means they do not change to match gender or number.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌbasikaˈmente/
Did you know?
- In spoken Spanish, if a sentence contains two adverbs ending in -mente, speakers often drop the suffix from the first one and only keep it on the last. For example, they might say básicamente y rápidamente as básica y rápidamente.
- While English speakers use 'basically' as a frequent filler word to start sentences, doing so too often in Spanish can make a speaker sound like they are searching for words. It is often seen as a sign of 'muletilla', or a linguistic crutch.
- The root word básico can also refer to the 'base' of a chemical substance in Spanish, making básicamente a word that exists in both chemistry and everyday conversation.
Examples in context
- Es básicamente lo mismo.It's basically the same thing.This sentence shows how to use básicamente to say something is the same.Tatoeba #10363873 by Shishir, translation #2669455 by Hybrid
- Yo hago básicamente lo mismo que Tom.I do basically the same thing as Tom does.This sentence demonstrates using básicamente to describe doing the same thing as someone else.Tatoeba #7646406 by dfrankmv, translation #6239316 by CK
- Básicamente estoy de acuerdo con tu opinión.Basically, I agree with your opinion.This sentence illustrates starting a sentence with básicamente to express basic agreement.Tatoeba #1370343 by marcelostockle, translation #20647 by CK
- En esencia, el proyecto se centra en mejorar la eficiencia del equipo.Basically, the project focuses on improving team efficiency.
- Prácticamente todos los organismos vivos requieren agua para sobrevivir.Basically, all living organisms require water to survive.
- La película era sobre superhéroes luchando contra villanos. En pocas palabras, ¡fue increíble!The movie was about superheroes fighting villains. Basically, it was incredible!
- A grandes rasgos, el proyecto consiste en mejorar la eficiencia mediante la automatización de procesos.Basically, the project aims to improve efficiency by automating processes.
- 11 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are discussing a new project at work.
- Mateo¿Cómo es el nuevo proyecto, Sofía?How is the new project, Sofía?
- SofíaBásicamente, es una actualización del sistema.Basically, it is a system update.
- MateoEntiendo, ¿es difícil para nosotros?I see, is it difficult for us?
- SofíaNo, Mateo, es bastante sencillo.No, Mateo, it is quite simple.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “basically” translations and entries básicamente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
