1
Core function
Mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
Example
The regional difference is, to a large extent, explained by access to water.
to a large extent
/tuː ə lɑːdʒ ɪkˈstent/ · too uh larj ik-STENTdegree phrase
Mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
Use to a large extent to express this relationship precisely: mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
What to a large extent Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
To a large extent, the two accounts agree about the sequence of events.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The harvest depends to a large extent on the timing of the monsoon.
Use to a large extent Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The regional difference is, to a large extent, explained by access to water.
To a large extent, the two accounts agree about the sequence of events.
The harvest depends to a large extent on the timing of the monsoon.
Precision Matters
To a large extent overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
to a large extent
vs.Means mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
in large part
Means mostly or to a substantial extent, though not necessarily entirely.
to a large extent
vs.Means mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
for the most part
Means mostly or generally, while allowing limited exceptions.
to a large extent
vs.Means mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
to some extent
Means partly or in a limited degree.
to a large extent
vs.Means mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
by and large
Means generally or for the most part, while allowing exceptions.
Test to a large extent in Context
Lower transport costs explain most, but not all, of the recovery.
1
The recovery was ___ driven by lower transport costs, although tax reform also contributed.