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básicamente

bah-see-kah-MEN-tayˌba.si.kaˈmen.te

“básicamente” means “basically” in Spanish (summarizing or simplifying).

basically, essentially

Also: fundamentally, in essence
A complex, multicolored geometric structure of many interconnected shapes is visually simplifying and condensing down into a single, solid blue cube, representing the core essence of an idea.

📝 In Action

Básicamente, necesitamos más tiempo para terminar el proyecto.

B1

Basically, we need more time to finish the project.

Ella explicó las reglas, pero básicamente, no podemos hacer ruido después de las diez.

B2

She explained the rules, but essentially, we can't make noise after ten.

¿Entiendes el plan? Sí, básicamente.

B1

Do you understand the plan? Yes, basically (I get the gist).

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • Básicamente, la idea es... – Basically, the idea is...
  • Eso es básicamente correcto. – That is essentially correct.

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "básicamente" in Spanish:

in essence→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: básicamente

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence best uses 'básicamente' to summarize a complex situation?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
básico(basic (adjective)) — Adjective
la base(the base / the foundation (noun)) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

Formed in Spanish by combining the adjective *básica* (basic) with the common adverbial suffix *-mente* (which comes from the Latin word for 'mind' or 'manner'). It literally means 'in a basic manner.'

First recorded: Mid-20th century, becoming extremely common later in the century.

Cognates (Related words)

English: basicallyPortuguese: basicamente

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'básicamente' used as much in Spanish as 'basically' is in English?

Yes, absolutely! 'Básicamente' is a very common 'filler word' or discourse marker in Spanish, just like its English counterpart. It helps speakers transition or simplify ideas quickly in casual conversation.

Can I use 'básicamente' to mean 'basic' (the adjective)?

No. 'Básicamente' is the adverb, meaning 'basically' or 'in a basic way.' If you want to say something *is* basic, you must use the adjective 'básico' (masculine) or 'básica' (feminine). Example: 'La idea es básica' (The idea is basic).