Ideally or Ideally – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the usage of “ideally” or “ideally,” many English learners and even native speakers often find themselves in a bit of a quandary. Both variations seem so similar that it can be challenging to discern which one is correct. However, fear not, for I am here to shed some light on this linguistic dilemma.
Let’s start by diving into the meaning of these words. “Ideally” is an adverb that pertains to an ideal situation or result. It implies that something is done or should be done in the best or most perfect way possible. Consider this example: “Ideally, we should all strive to live in a world without poverty and injustice.” Here, “ideally” emphasizes the notion of an ideal situation, painting a picture of how things should be.
On the other hand, “ideally” is not a word that exists in the English language. It is a common mistake made by individuals who confuse adverbs ending in “-ly” with adjectives. For instance, some might say, “I would like to live in an ideally world.” In this example, “ideally” is incorrectly used as an adjective modifying the noun “world.” However, to correct this sentence, one should use “ideal” instead of “ideally” as follows: “I would like to live in an ideal world.”
To further illustrate the distinction, let’s examine a few more examples. Consider the sentence, “Ideally, I should wake up early to make the most of my day.” Here, “ideally” sets the expectation of an ideal situation, suggesting that waking up early is the best or most perfect way to optimize one’s day.
Now, ponder this sentence: “The new students were ideally suited for the advanced placement class.” In this case, “ideally” emphasizes the suitability and compatibility of the new students for the advanced class, portraying them as an ideal match.
In contrast, if we were to use “ideally” as an adjective instead, it would alter the meaning of the sentence. For instance, “The new students were ideal suited for the advanced placement class” would imply that the students were suited in an ideal manner, implying flawless fitting or perfection. This alteration modifies the intended meaning and deviates from what the speaker initially wished to convey.
To reiterate, “ideally” is the correct adverbial form that should be employed when describing an ideal situation or result. It is crucial to remember that adverbs typically end in “-ly,” while adjectives do not.
In conclusion, when in doubt, always bear in mind that “ideally” is the correct usage when referring to an ideal situation or result. Be cautious not to mistakenly replace this adverb with the nonexistent adjective “ideally.” By adhering to this grammatical rule, you will undoubtedly enhance your English language skills and effectively communicate in any situation. Whether preparing for an IELTS exam or engaging in everyday English conversations, stick to the correct usage, and your fluency and accuracy will soar.