merely

adverb C1 Formal

Meaning

"Merely" is an adverb that conveys the notion of something being only or simply what is stated, often implying a limitation or reduction in significance, value, or extent. It is frequently used to downplay the importance of an assertion or to clarify that

💡 "Merely" can sometimes be misused in contexts where a more emphatic term is required; it is important to ensure that it accurately reflects the intended degree of limitation.

Example Sentences

The proposal is merely a starting point for further negotiations .

The proposal was merely a suggestion , not a final decision .

The report was merely a summary of the main findings .

The results merely indicate a correlation , not a causal relationship .

Common Phrases

merely a suggestion merely a formality merely coincidental

Synonyms

Related Words

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