Mostly is a common adverb that is pronounced /ˈmoʊstli/. The word mostly can be broken down into two syllables: "most" and "ly." The "o" in "most" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, while the "ly" ending is pronounced with a short "i" sound. The spelling of mostly is consistent with English spelling patterns in which the letter "o" is often used to indicate a long vowel sound, while the letter "y" is often used to indicate a consonant or sound like "i."
Mostly is an adverb that refers to the largest part or the majority of something. It denotes that something occurs or exists in a general, prevailing, or predominant manner, but with the possibility of exceptions or outliers. The term suggests that a particular condition, characteristic, action, or event applies or happens typically, often, or chiefly, without being absolute or exclusive.
When describing a quantity or extent, mostly indicates that a particular thing or phenomenon accounts for the greatest portion or preponderance of the whole. It implies that the subject under discussion is primarily characterized by the stated attribute or quality, although there might be certain instances or circumstances where this may not hold true.
Mostly is frequently employed when expressing generalizations, opinions, or observations. It signifies a pattern, trend, or norm that is widely recognized or commonly accepted as being representative or typical. It implies that, in the speaker or writer's experience or estimation, the statement being made holds true for a significant majority of cases, individuals, situations, or instances.
In summary, mostly refers to the greater part or greater degree of something, conveying the idea of prevalence or predominance. It suggests that a specified condition, action, or attribute is generally applicable but might have exceptions. This versatile adverb is regularly employed to express generalizations, common patterns, or prevailing situations.
In the greatest or highest degree; for the greatest part: at most, or at the most, within the furthest limits; the utmost extent: to make the most of, to derive the greatest benefit or advantage from.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "mostly" originated from the Middle English term "mostliche", which can be traced back to the Old English word "mæstlīce". It is a combination of two elements: "mǣst", meaning "most", and the suffix "-līce", which is used to form adverbs. Over time, "mæstlīce" evolved into "mostliche" in Middle English, and eventually transformed into its modern form, "mostly". The word has retained its meaning throughout its history, referring to something that occurs or applies to the greatest extent or primarily.