student asking question

Can I think "only" is adjective in here?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Unfortunately, no. "Only" functions as an adverb in this sentence. "Only" functions as an adverb when something is limited to certain people, things, or groups. "Only" acts as an adjective when the item is alone of its kind. "It only takes 20 hours" means that it solely or exclusively takes 20 hours to learn something. Here are sentences with "only" functioning as an adverb. Ex: It only took us fifteen minutes to get there. Ex: I only want you to be happy. Here are sentences with "only" functioning as an adjective. Ex: We only have two spots available on the team this year. Ex: I only have one cookie. You will have to share it with your sister.

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