American English

How to pronounce usually

adverbA2Very common word
YOOzhuhlee

/ˈju.ʒə.li/

3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.

in most cases; most of the time

What to listen for

“Usually” is commonly said in two ways: /ˈju.ʒə.li/ with three syllables or /ˈju.ʒu.ə.li/ with four. You may also hear /ˈju.ʒə.wə.li/ with a light /w/.

Common pronunciation/ˈju.ʒə.li/
Less common pronunciation with /w//ˈju.ʒə.wə.li/
Common four-syllable pronunciation/ˈju.ʒu.ə.li/
Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

adverb

in most cases; most of the time

I usually walk to work.

She is usually very calm.

Good to know

Usually means “most of the time,” not “always.” It normally comes before the main verb: I usually eat breakfast.

Common phrases & grammar

usually happen · usually work · usually go · usually mean

subject + usually + main verb

subject + be + usually + adjective

Useful expressions

as usual

in the way that normally happens

As usual, he arrived late.

Related words & forms