Mere: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'mere' to emphasize how small or insignificant something is.

• He finished the task in mere minutes.
• The mere thought of it makes me nervous.

Use 'simple' to describe something easy to understand or do, not complicated or elaborate.

• He prefers a simple lifestyle.
• The instructions were simple to follow.

Use 'bare' to describe something lacking in decoration, covering, or content.

• The room was bare and unfurnished.
• She walked on the bare floor without shoes.

Use 'plain' when describing something simple, without embellishments or complexity.

• She wore a plain dress.
• His message was plain and clear.

Use 'unadorned' to describe something without any decorations or embellishments, often emphasizing a natural or minimalistic look.

• The unadorned beauty of the forest was breathtaking.
• Her style is unadorned and elegant.

Use when emphasizing that something is small or insignificant, or when it is nothing more than what it appears.

• The mere thought of it makes me nervous.
• It's a mere five dollars.

Use to indicate exclusivity or limitation, often when highlighting that nothing outside of a certain criterion matters.

• I have only one question.
• She's the only person who is not invited.

Use in many informal contexts to emphasize something happening exactly at a point in time or to indicate a minimal amount.

• I just finished my homework.
• He wants just a little bit more.

Use when explaining something in a straightforward or uncomplicated manner, or to emphasize ease or lack of complexity.

• You simply have to press this button.
• It's simply the best solution.

Use to show something is done for one sole purpose or reason, often emphasizing the lack of other influences.

• The decision was made purely for financial reasons.
• It was purely by chance.