The difference between By and large and Mostly
When used as adverbs, by and large means mostly, generally, whereas mostly means mainly or chiefly.
check bellow for the other definitions of By and large and Mostly
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By and large as an adverb (set phrase, focus):
mostly, generally; with few exceptions
Examples:
"It was, by and large, an unexceptional presentation."
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Mostly as an adverb:
Mainly or chiefly; for the most part; usually, generally, on the whole.
Examples:
"They're mostly good people, although they have made a few mistakes."
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Mostly as an adverb (obsolete):
To the greatest extent; most.