ideally
/aɪˈdɪə.li/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
In an ideal way; perfectly.
Adverb
Examples
The summit of Mauna Kea is considered the ideal place to mount an astronomical observatory, for above the clouds there is only the stars and the skies are ideally transparent.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Given ideal circumstances; preferably.
Adverb
Examples
Ideally, we would have one textbook per student, but unfortunately some of you will have to share.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “ideally” mean?
In an ideal way; perfectly.
Is “ideally” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.