Translation guide
The adverb "primarily" indicates that something is mainly or mostly the case, or that the main purpose or reason for something is as stated. In Japanese, this is expressed through adverbs, set phrases, and sentence patterns that emphasize the main element.
To say that something is mostly true or consists mainly of something, with other elements being secondary.
The most common and neutral way to say 'primarily' or 'mainly'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
この地域は主に農業で成り立っています。
This region primarily relies on agriculture.
彼の仕事は主にデータ入力です。
His job primarily involves data entry.
Slightly more formal than 主に. Often used in written language or formal speech.
このプロジェクトは主として若手社員が担当します。
This project is primarily handled by young employees.
Literally 'for the most part', emphasizes the large proportion. Used when you want to stress that something is mostly the case.
その問題は大部分は解決しました。
The problem has been primarily resolved.
Means 'mostly' or 'for the most part'. Often used in the phrase 大方の〜 (most of). Somewhat literary.
大方の人はその事実を知らない。
Most people are unaware of that fact.
To indicate that the primary reason or purpose for something is as stated.
Pattern using 主に with ために to express 'primarily for the purpose of'. The 〜 part is a verb or noun.
この会議は主に情報共有のために開かれます。
This meeting is held primarily for information sharing.
Literally 'the primary purpose is to...'. A more explicit way to state the main objective.
この制度の第一の目的は、安全性を高めることです。
The primary purpose of this system is to enhance safety.
To emphasize that something is the most important consideration, above all else.
Means 'above all' or 'more than anything'. Strongly emphasizes priority.
健康は何よりも大切です。
Health is important above all else.
Literally 'firstly', used to list priorities or to stress the primary point.
第一に、安全を確保しなければならない。
Primarily, we must ensure safety.
Both mean 'mainly' or 'primarily', but 主に is more common in everyday speech, while 主として is slightly more formal and often appears in written language or formal presentations. In casual conversation, 主に is preferred.
English uses 'primarily' as a flexible adverb, but Japanese often expresses the same idea through phrases like 主に or by restructuring the sentence. Directly translating 'primarily' as 第一に in all contexts can sound unnatural. Choose the expression based on whether you mean 'mainly', 'for the most part', or 'first and foremost'.
その会社は主にソフトウェア開発に力を入れています。
The company primarily focuses on software development.
この薬は主に痛みを和らげるために使われます。
This medicine is used primarily to relieve pain.