ideally
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /aɪdˈiəli/
US
- /aɪˈdili/
Description
- in a perfect world
- as things should be
- in the best case
- perfectly suited
"Ideally," we would all have endless free time and perfect weather for picnics every day. But life is not always like that. The word "ideally" describes what would happen if everything went just right, or how something should be in a perfect world. It is often used when talking about hopes, plans, or the best possible result. You might say, "Ideally, the project will be finished by Friday," meaning that this is the goal if things go smoothly. It can also describe something that is a perfect fit for a certain purpose.
"Ideally" describes something in its perfect form—how it should be, rather than how it may currently be. It is about envisioning the best possible outcome or situation; think of it as painting a picture of perfection.
You will often use "ideally" when discussing plans, goals, or preferences that show what you would like to happen, even if it may not be realistic right now. For example, saying "Ideally, I would travel the world after graduation" shows that there might be obstacles like money or responsibilities, but it still expresses a strong wish for that outcome.
"Ideally" can also describe something that is perfectly suited to a particular purpose. Saying "This space is ideally suited for a small workshop" means it fits that purpose extremely well.
It is important to remember that "ideally" often carries an unspoken "but..."—an acknowledgment that reality might not quite measure up. You wouldn't say, "The weather is ideally sunny today" if it were pouring rain; instead, you would use it when describing a desired state: "Ideally, the weather would be sunny for our event." Whether you are dreaming of perfect circumstances or describing a perfect match, "ideally" points to a vision of what could be in a world where everything is just right.
Examples
- 1
Travel plan
Ideally, we'd leave early and get there before lunch.
- 2
Location
The apartment is ideally located near the station and the river.
Phrase
ideally located
in the best or most convenient place
- 3
Study conditions
Children should ideally have a quiet place to study at home.
- 4
Work preference
I'd ideally like to work part-time for the first few months.
- 5
Soft deadline
We need a final answer by Friday, ideally.
Grammar
At the end of a sentence, ideally often means "if possible in the best situation."
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- ideallyadverb