What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
merely
Example
I merely suggested we go to the park. [merely: adverb]
Example
The painting was merely a sketch, not a finished work. [merely: adjective]
only
Example
I can only speak English. [only: adverb]
Example
She is the only person who knows the truth. [only: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Only is more commonly used than merely in everyday language. Only is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while merely is less common and often used in more formal or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between merely and only?
Merely is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while only is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
