The meaning of ALMOST is very nearly but not exactly or entirely. How to use almost in a sentence.

ALMOST definition: very nearly; all but. See examples of almost used in a sentence.

We use almost and nearly to refer to the progress of things, especially if we are measuring and counting things. In these examples, almost and nearly can both be used: … It’ll cost almost as …

Almost and nearly both mean 'not completely' or 'not quite'. They can be used in front of adjectives or noun phrases, or with verbs. Dinner is almost ready. We're nearly ready now. I …

You use almost to indicate that something is not completely the case but is nearly the case. The couple had been dating for almost three years. The effect is almost impossible to describe. He …

Dec 14, 2025 · almost (plural almosts) (informal) Something or someone that doesn't quite make it. In all the submissions, they found four papers that were clearly worth publishing and another …

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025 al•most (ôl′ mōst, ôl mōst′), adv. Pronouns very nearly; all but: almost every house; to pay almost nothing …

Oct 18, 2013 · Almost can mean ‘nearly’, ‘not quite’ or ‘not completely’. It is an adverb. When almost modifies a verb, it normally goes before that verb.

There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the word almost, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Most and almost are easy to confuse. Learn to use this English grammar correctly here with custom images and lots of natural examples!