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

This approach transforms the dialogue from an attempted conversion into a legitimate conversation, wherein you’re merely offering your partner something to consider after the fact.

From Salon

In the throes of what now feels like a systematic assault on our way of life in multiethnic American urban centers, not merely targeting the “the worst of the worst” but anyone with brown skin.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s not merely a set of walls and some clothes.

From Los Angeles Times

Vance, for his apart, did acknowledge Paul’s concerns about the lack of due process in killing people merely suspected of criminal activity.

From Salon

Alvarez landed a heavy right in the closing seconds of the round, but Crawford merely smiled dismissively.

From BBC

Related Words

• hardly 
• only 
• purely 
• simply 
• solely