Merely: meaning, definitions and examples

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merely

[ˈmɪə.li ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

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

just, only, simply.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
merely	Used to emphasize that something is insignificant or unimportant. He is not angry; he is merely tired It was merely a suggestion, not a final decision
just	Used to indicate something happening at the moment or recently, to make a statement precise, or to downplay an element of the situation. I just saw her leave the building It's just a scratch, nothing serious
only	Indicates exclusivity, the single one or no more than. She is the only one who can solve this problem You have only five minutes left
simply	Used to indicate something is easy to understand or straightforward, or to emphasize plainness and lack of complexity. The recipe is simply delicious He simply doesn't care about the rules

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.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

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

just, only, simply.

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. He was merely a boy when he joined the army. It's merely a scratch, no need to worry.
only	Used to emphasize that there is no more or nothing else besides what is mentioned. Often used to point out exclusivity or limitation. She was the only one who knew the answer. There are only three cookies left.
just	Often used to indicate something that happened a short time ago or to emphasize something that is exactly or precisely true. I just finished my homework. It was just a misunderstanding.
simply	Emphasizes ease or straightforwardness, often used to make something clear or to indicate that something is easy to understand or do. You simply press this button to start the machine. It's simply the best solution available.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Middle English 'merely,' which meant 'only' or 'purely.'
Roots trace back to the Old English word 'mǣre,' 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.

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 'it’s 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 it’s 'merely a problem'—infusing 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.

Translations

Translations of the word "merely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apenas

🇮🇳 केवल

🇩🇪 nur

🇮🇩 hanya

🇺🇦 лише

🇵🇱 tylko

🇯🇵 ただ

🇫🇷 seulement

🇪🇸 sólo

🇹🇷 sadece

🇰🇷 단지

🇸🇦 فقط

🇨🇿 pouze

🇸🇰 len

🇨🇳 仅仅

🇸🇮 samo

🇮🇸 aðeins

🇰🇿 тек

🇬🇪 მხოლოდ

🇦🇿 sadəcə

🇲🇽 sólo

Word Frequency Rank

At #958 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
955 learning
956 status
957 rise
958 merely
959 dead
960 music
961 spirit
...