merely

mere-ly · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    Just; only; nothing more than.

  2. 2.

    Used to emphasize that something is small, unimportant, or limited in scope.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    merely a formality — something done only because it is required, not because it matters
  • •
    not merely...but also — used to add emphasis to a second point

Related words

Antonyms: significantly, substantially
See also: just, mere, only, simply
Synonyms: just, only, purely, simply, solely

Etymology

From Middle English merely, formed from mere + -ly. Originally meant "purely, entirely" before shifting to its current meaning of "only, just."