Merely

/ˈmɪrli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

only as specified and nothing more; just.

She was merely following orders, not making her own decisions.

to a lesser extent; nothing more than.

This is merely a suggestion, not a requirement.

used to emphasize the insignificance or triviality of something.

He’s merely a child, he doesn't understand the situation.

only; simply.

I was merely trying to help, not to offend you.

Middle English mereli, from mere + -ly.

merely a formality

A requirement that is considered to be of little consequence.

merely theoretical

Something that exists only in theory and has no practical application.

mere

The term 'mere' means nothing more than what is specified.

merely

An adverb emphasizing the simplicity or insignificance of something.

Just a lit, nothing more.

I was merely vibing at the party.

Just a regular thing.

It's merely another Monday for me.