merely

[ meer-lee ]

adverb

1. only as specified and nothing more; simply:

   merely a matter of form.

2. Obsolete.
   1. without admixture; purely.
   2. altogether; entirely.

ˈmerely

/ ˈmɪəlɪ /

adverb

1. only; nothing more than

Word History and Origins

Origin of merely¹

First recorded in 1400–50, merely is from the late Middle English word mereli. See mere ¹, -ly

Example Sentences

The findings also cast the humble single-cell creatures in a new, more tantalizing light: They are not merely molecular machines packed in microscopic bodies, but they are also agents that can learn.

From Science Daily

In response to the criticism, Bawumia has said the economic management team he headed had no "decision-making powers" and that it merely provided advice to the government.

From BBC

But for the Naga people, this process is not merely logistical.

From BBC

That essential element of his identity is presented as merely neutral fact, rather than the alienating circumstance it no doubt was.

From Los Angeles Times

The 27-year-old Paul merely had to withstand an intense burst of activity from the former undisputed heavyweight champ in the second round, then outlast the visibly winded Tyson.

From Salon

Related Words

• barely
• only
• quite
• simply
• solely