Merely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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merely
[หmษชษ.li ]
Definitions
used to emphasize that something is small, unimportant, or not serious
Used to emphasize that something is small, unimportant, or not serious. It is often used to downplay the significance or importance of something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| merely |
Used to emphasize that something is insignificant or unimportant.
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| just |
Used to indicate something happening at the moment or recently, to make a statement precise, or to downplay an element of the situation.
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| only |
Indicates exclusivity, the single one or no more than.
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| simply |
Used to indicate something is easy to understand or straightforward, or to emphasize plainness and lack of complexity.
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Examples of usage
- It was merely a suggestion, not a requirement.
- She was merely trying to be helpful, not critical.
- The issue was merely a misunderstanding, easily resolved.
used to emphasize that something is no more or better than what is mentioned
Used to emphasize that something is no more or better than what is mentioned. It is often used to indicate the limited or minimal nature of something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| merely |
Used to emphasize that something is less important or smaller than it seems. It can sometimes imply a sense of insignificance.
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| only |
Used to emphasize that there is no more or nothing else besides what is mentioned. Often used to point out exclusivity or limitation.
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| just |
Often used to indicate something that happened a short time ago or to emphasize something that is exactly or precisely true.
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| simply |
Emphasizes ease or straightforwardness, often used to make something clear or to indicate that something is easy to understand or do.
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Examples of usage
- He is merely a child, he cannot be expected to understand.
- This is merely a prototype, the final product will be much better.
- It's merely a scratch, nothing to worry about.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- In conversational English, it often softens statements, making them sound less harsh or absolute.
- The word is frequently used in legal contexts to denote minimal requirements or conditions.
- In rhetorical analyses, 'merely' helps emphasize a contrast, highlighting the difference between what's significant and what's not.
Psychology
- Using 'merely' can influence perceptions by downplaying anxiety or significance attached to certain situations.
- Studies show that language can shape reality; when someone says 'merely a phase,' it may make a less daunting impact on feelings of change.
- In motivational contexts, saying 'itโs merely a mistake' can promote resilience, reducing the fear of failure.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'merely a suggestion' appears frequently in comedic scripts to downplay serious advice, adding humor.
- In music, lyrics often include 'merely' to convey feelings of unimportance about relationships or experiences.
- Movies sometimes feature characters who overdramatize their lives, only to be met with others saying itโs 'merely a problem'โinfusing humor into the situation.
Literature
- In literature, authors use 'merely' to underscore absurdity or triviality, adding depth to character dialogues.
- The word is common in existential themes, emphasizing the simplistic view of life's complexities.
- In poetry, 'merely' can serve as a juxtaposition tool, contrasting mundane details against profound experiences.
Origin of 'merely'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'merely,' which meant 'only' or 'purely.'
- Roots trace back to the Old English word 'mวฃre,' meaning 'famous or renowned,' but evolved to reflect limitation or simplicity.
- In the 16th century, it started to be used to emphasize minor importance in comparison to larger issues.
The word 'merely' originated from the Middle English word 'merely' which means 'altogether'. It evolved over time to its current usage in Modern English. The word has been in use since the 14th century and has maintained its meaning of 'only' or 'simply' throughout its history.
See also: mere.