Partly Meaning, Examples & Correct Usage

Meaning 1：to some degree (partly)

partly 🔊

/ˈpɑːrtli/

adv.

used to say something is true to some degree, but not completely.

Partly cloudy sky illustration showing partial sunlight and clouds

to some degree 🔊

➕

/tə sʌm dɪˈɡriː/

adv.

Indicates that something is true or valid to a certain extent but not fully; often used when listing multiple reasons.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Partly comes from 'part' (a portion) + adverbial suffix '-ly'.

💡 Mnemonic

Remember: 'partly' = 'part' + 'ly' - only a part of the whole.

📖 Example

I'm late for class partly because I overslept, and partly because the bus didn't come on time. 🔊 I'm late for class partly because I overslept, and partly because the bus didn't come on time.

🔗 Collocations

partly responsible – having some responsibility but not all

partly due to – resulting in part from a specific cause

partly because – used to introduce one of several reasons

🔄 Synonyms

partially (adv.) – to some extent but not completely

in part (adv.) – to a limited extent; used to indicate one of multiple factors

somewhat (adv.) – to a certain degree but not fully

🚫 Antonyms

completely (adv.) – to the fullest extent; entirely

fully (adv.) – without any reservation or omission

entirely (adv.) – in every way; completely

🌱 Derivatives

part (n.) – a portion or piece of a whole

partial (adj.) – not complete; existing only in part

📖 Cultural Story

Partly derives from Old French 'partie' and Latin 'partita', used since 14th century to indicate partial cause, often paired in 'partly...partly...'.