Ideally
aɪˈdɪəli
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a perfect situation or in the best possible way.
aɪˈdɪəli
In a perfect or the most suitable way.
Ideally, we should have left earlier to avoid the traffic.
💡 Simply: Imagine your dream scenario. 'Ideally' means, 'if everything went perfectly, like in your perfect world.' Like, ideally, you'd win the lottery AND find a lost puppy.
👶 For kids: Like when you wish something could happen in the very best way, like, "Ideally, it won't rain on our picnic!"
More Examples
The meeting, ideally, should last no more than an hour.
Ideally, everyone would agree on the plan.
How It's Used
"Ideally, we should finish the project by Friday."
"Ideally, the new software will improve efficiency."
Used to express a preference or a situation that would be desirable but may not be feasible.
aɪˈdɪəli
Used to express a preference or hypothetical situation.
Ideally, the weather will be sunny for the picnic.
💡 Simply: If you could have anything you wanted, what would it be? 'Ideally' is like saying, 'If I could have my wish, I would…'
👶 For kids: When you say what you want to happen most, even if it's not possible. Like, "Ideally, I'd have ice cream for dinner!"
More Examples
Ideally, we should start saving for our retirement now.
Ideally, the movie would have a happy ending.
How It's Used
"Ideally, I'd like to travel the world."
"Ideally, I'd prefer a quieter apartment."
Idioms & expressions
Ideally speaking
Used to introduce an opinion or statement about what would be best or most desirable.
"Ideally speaking, we should have started this project sooner."
From "ideal" + "-ly". "Ideal" comes from the Greek word "idea" (form, pattern) influenced by Latin "idealis" (ideal). The suffix "-ly" is used to form adverbs.
The use of 'ideally' has evolved from expressing concepts of perfection or abstract ideals to indicating a desirable but not always achievable situation, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries.
Memory tip
Think of the 'ideal' (perfect) situation and add '-ly' to express the manner.
Word Origin
"form, pattern/ideal"