only too
Idioms-
At the very least, as a matter of fact, as in I know only too well that I can't win the lottery . This usage was first recorded in 1817.
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Very, extremely, as in I am only too glad to help . This usage was first recorded in 1899.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
City know the dangers of the play-off round only too well after being dumped out at that stage by Real Madrid 12 months ago.
From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026
Which, as spies know only too well, can only exist when you accept, and share, the real truth about yourself.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2026
I was only too delighted to have the singles back in my life again.
From Salon • Dec. 23, 2025
Cambodia, by contrast, is only too happy to welcome outside intervention.
From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025
Blackberry was fidgeting on and off the thwart, strung up, able to feel only too clearly all that Hazel felt himself.
From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
