What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
primarily
Example
The company's primarily focus is on customer satisfaction. [primarily: adverb]
Example
The book is primarily concerned with the effects of climate change. [primarily: adverb]
mainly
Example
The restaurant mainly serves Italian cuisine. [mainly: adverb]
Example
The disease is mainly caused by genetic factors. [mainly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mainly is more commonly used than primarily in everyday language. Mainly is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while primarily is more specific and formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between primarily and mainly?
Primarily is more formal than mainly and is often used in academic or professional writing. Mainly is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
