Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[syoshioka99]

It rained practically all day.

I think "practically" in this sentence means "almost." I know it. but I DO NOT know why "practically" means "almost." I think this word comes from "practice", which means custom, exercise, profession, action and so on. And I can't imagine at all how in the world the meaning of "almost" derived from it. Could you tell me if possible? I welcome ANY guesses from any native English speakers in the world. I ain't a native...

Satoru

JAPAN

Nov. 11th, 2005

[Yavanna]

This is an example where words take on popular meaning that cannot be explained etymologically. You're right; it's a native speaker thing. You just have to accept it, and congratulate yourself that you figured it out! Your example was excellent.

"Practically" is an adverb that can (and usually) means "almost."

A -- "I worked all weekend but made almost no money."
B -- "Really?"
A -- "Yeah. Practically nothing."

You will also find that we use "virtually" in place of "almost."

Hope that helps!
_________________
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Ingles Profesional para Negocios
Los Cabos, BCS Mexico

[syoshioka99]

Your message is very helpful to you. I will accept it.

Satoru

JAPAN
:D