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Only Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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only

[ˈoʊnli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

use

Without anyone or anything else; solely or exclusively.

Synonyms

exclusively, just, solely.

Examples of usage

  • She only wanted to help.
  • He is the only person who knows the truth.
Context #2 | Adjective

quantity

Being the single one or the only one of a kind; unique.

Synonyms

singular, sole, unique.

Examples of usage

  • This is the only copy of the book.
  • She is the only child in her family.
Context #3 | Conjunction

limitation

Except for the fact that; unless.

Synonyms

but, except, unless.

Examples of usage

  • I would go, only I have no time.
  • He would have passed the exam, only he didn't study enough.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'only'

The word 'only' originated from the Middle English word 'anly', which in turn came from the Old English word 'anlic', meaning 'unique'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form and usage in the English language.

See also: anyone, one, one's, oneness, oneself, onesie.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #37, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.