is it partly or partially

Is 'Partly' or 'Partially': Which is Right?

By Mark LewisJanuary 15, 2026

The debate between "partly" and "partially" is a common one in the English language, with many people wondering which is the more appropriate choice. While both terms are used to indicate a portion or a part of something, they have slightly different implications and uses.

Understanding the distinction between "partly" and "partially" isn't just a matter of pedantry; it can affect the clarity and nuance of your communication, especially in formal or professional contexts.

When to Use "Partly"

"Partly" is an adverb that means to some extent or degree, but not completely. It's often used to describe a situation where something happens or exists, but not to the fullest extent. For example:

'I've read partly the book,' she said, 'but I'm not sure I understand the ending.' Here, 'partly' indicates that the woman has started reading the book, but hasn't finished it yet.

Partly as an Adverb with Verbs

"Partly" can modify verbs to indicate incomplete action. For instance, "She partly agreed" means she agreed but not fully or completely.

Vocabulary Apps, Reading Vocabulary, Motivational Pictures, Improve Your English, Vocabulary Practice, Create Words, English Grammar, Grammar, Learn English

two different types of clothes with the words same vs identical on them and an orange line above

Examples include:

She partly agreed with his idea.
He partly understood the equations, but needed more help.

Partly with Nouns

Unlike "partially", "partly" can directly modify nouns to indicate a quantity. For example:

I only had partly the ingredients for the recipe. Here, 'partly' means 'some', indicating that you had some but not all of the ingredients.

the differences between wrong and right words

the words are in different colors and shapes, with arrows pointing to each other on them

7 Activities For Understanding Distributive Property In A Fun Way - Number Dyslexia

When to Use "Partially"

"Partially" is also an adverb, but it typically suggests that something is incomplete or less than total, but often implies that it's more than just a small amount. It's often used to describe processes or states that are not yet complete.

For example:

The project was partially completed by the end of the week. Here, 'partially' implies that some work was done, but the project isn't entirely finished yet.

the words what are you? to define is to limit

✨ Especially vs Specially | What's the Difference?

Multiplying Decimals Anchor Chart Poster and Interactive Guided Notes

Little vs A Little | English Grammar Explained Simply

Percent and Proportion Common Core Task Cards 6.RP.3

the words are written in black and white

Grammar Mistakes Writers Make: Its vs. It’s—The Apostrophe That Trips Everyone Up – Book Cave

Causal Inference in the Wild | Towards Data Science

Partially with Adjectives

"Partially" can modify adjectives to indicate a state or a degree. For instance:

The company was partially satisfied with the proposal. Here, 'partially' indicates that the company was satisfied to some extent, but not fully.

Partially with Verbs

With verbs, "partially" often signifies that something started but wasn't finished. For example:

Theoweit the conflict has been partially resolved. Here, 'partially' implies that some progress was made, but the conflict isn't entirely resolved yet.

Finally, both "partly" and "partially" can follow expressions starting with 'in', such as 'in each' or 'in part'. For example: 'In each, the solution was only partly/partially correct.' Here, both 'partly' and 'partially' are acceptable.

In day-to-day communication, these differences might seem minor, but they can subtly change the meaning or tone of your messages. So, the next time you're writing or speaking, consider whether 'partly' or 'partially' is the right choice for your context. After all, the English language has given us these two distinct words for a reason!