Mere Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
mere
[mษชษr ]
Definitions
simple
used to emphasize how small, unimportant, or insignificant someone or something is
Synonyms
bare, plain, simple, unadorned.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mere |
Use 'mere' to emphasize how small or insignificant something is.
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| simple |
Use 'simple' to describe something easy to understand or do, not complicated or elaborate.
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| bare |
Use 'bare' to describe something lacking in decoration, covering, or content.
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| plain |
Use 'plain' when describing something simple, without embellishments or complexity.
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| unadorned |
Use 'unadorned' to describe something without any decorations or embellishments, often emphasizing a natural or minimalistic look.
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Examples of usage
- His problems seemed mere trifles compared to hers.
- The mere thought of it made her shudder.
- It was a mere formality.
- She's a mere child.
emphasis
used to emphasize the fact that something is only what is stated and nothing more
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mere |
Use when emphasizing that something is small or insignificant, or when it is nothing more than what it appears.
|
| only |
Use to indicate exclusivity or limitation, often when highlighting that nothing outside of a certain criterion matters.
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| just |
Use in many informal contexts to emphasize something happening exactly at a point in time or to indicate a minimal amount.
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| simply |
Use when explaining something in a straightforward or uncomplicated manner, or to emphasize ease or lack of complexity.
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| purely |
Use to show something is done for one sole purpose or reason, often emphasizing the lack of other influences.
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Examples of usage
- It's not just a mere coincidence.
- He's not a mere acquaintance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Authors often use 'mere' to emphasize the insignificance of something, enhancing the themes in their narratives.
- Shakespeare used it in his works to underscore the contrast between appearances and reality.
- In poetry, 'mere' can evoke feelings of fragility, as in a 'mere shadow' representing fleeting existence.
Philosophy
- In debates, something described as 'mere' often invites deeper questioning of its value.
- Philosophers have discussed the implications of calling something 'mere,' suggesting it may discount deeper meanings.
- The use of 'mere' can provoke discussions around what constitutes 'truth' versus 'appearance' in philosophical dialogues.
Psychology
- Sometimes, people downplay their feelings or achievements by labeling them as 'mere,' which can affect self-esteem.
- 'Mere' can suggest a tendency to minimize, which can lead to misunderstandings in personal communication.
- Cognitive biases can lead individuals to perceive 'mere' situations as less significant, affecting decision-making.
Pop Culture
- In movies, a character may dismiss a threat as 'mere' to showcase bravado before realizing its true danger.
- Songs often feature the term to underline the contrast between love and loss, using 'mere' to suggest unworthiness.
- The phrase 'mere mortal' is frequently used to highlight the limitations of humanity in fantasy and adventure stories.
Origin of 'mere'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'mรฆre,' which meant 'pure' or 'mere, empty.'
- In Middle English, it was used to mean 'only' or 'just,' showing its evolution in meaning over time.
- Its form has been influenced by similar words in other languages, such as Latin 'merus,' which also means 'pure.'
The word 'mere' originated from Middle English, from Old English 'mวฃre', meaning 'boundary, limit'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the current definitions of 'small' or 'only'. The use of 'mere' to emphasize insignificance or simplicity dates back to the 14th century.
See also: merely.