only
on
ˈəʊn
ewn
ly
li
li
lonely

Definition & Meaning of "only"in English

only
01

with anyone or anything else excluded 

only definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
incomparable
adverb of degree
Examples
She eats only apples. 
02

with no additional elements or implications 

Examples
He asked for only a glass of water and nothing more. 
03

used to indicate that despite previous efforts or events, the final outcome is inevitable or contrary 

Examples
He worked hard throughout the year, only to find out he missed the promotion. 
04

used to introduce a restriction, exception, or limitation to what has been stated 

Examples
He would have passed the test, only he missed the last question. 
05

used to indicate that something is leading to a negative outcome 

Examples
Procrastinating will only lead to more stress later. 
06

used to convey that a short time has passed since the event 

Examples
The new restaurant opened only a month ago and is already very popular. 
01

without another thing or person existing in the same category 

only definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
qualitative
ungradable
Examples
She was the only child in her family, receiving undivided attention from her parents. 
02

unrivaled and singular in excellence or quality, leaving no room for competition 

Examples
This resort is the only place to spend your holiday. 
03

referring to one among a very limited number 

Examples
This is one of the only areas not yet explored by researchers. 
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