Meaning of the word only in English

What does only mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

only

US /ˈoʊn.li/

UK /ˈoʊn.li/

and no one or nothing more besides; solely or exclusively

Example:

•

I only have five dollars left.

•

She was only joking.

Synonym:

just merely simply solely exclusively

no more than; no older than

Example:

•

He's only ten years old.

•

The concert started only five minutes ago.

Synonym:

just merely simply

being the single one or the sole instance and no other

Example:

•

This is the only way to solve the problem.

•

He was the only person who understood me.

Synonym:

sole single unique exclusive lone

except that; but

Example:

•

I'd go, only I'm too tired.

•

It's a good plan, only it might be too expensive.

Synonym:

but except save

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