What is an antonym for "technically"? [closed]

In this case technically meaning "according to the prescribed definition or rules." Is there a single word antonym for this?

Solution 1:

loosely

OED definition of technically:

In the technical use or terminology of a particular field; according to the exact meaning; properly, strictly.

Example (made up): Technically speaking, a tomato is a fruit.

OED definition of loosely:

Without care, strictness, or rigour; not strictly; carelessly, negligently, laxly. Said esp. of thought or its expression

Example (made up): Loosely speaking, if it looks like a veggie and tastes like a veggie, it is a veggie, technicalities be damned.

Solution 2:

I'd propose "informally" as well. While it's not a direct antonyms, a technical description is often extremely precise, and therefore formal (i.e. using complicated words and very formal structure). An informal description, on the other hand, uses colloquial terms or colloquial meanings of technical jargon, as opposed to the strictly correct words.

Merriam Webster defines "informal" as

of language : relaxed in tone : not suited for serious or official speech and writing

Again, not technically an antonym, but it describes situations where non-technical descriptions are often found

Solution 3:

I agree that "loosely" is a good antonym. However, it will probably be most coherent in both speech and writing to use the phrase "loosely speaking" as an antonym to "technically".

"Technically" is itself often used with "speaking", but because the former is so commonly used nowadays (I guess), the latter word in the phrase is dropped being understood.

So, say or write: "loosely speaking" as an antonym to "technically".