Only

/ˈoʊnli/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Being the single one; unique.

This is the only book that I need.

Exclusive; limited to.

He is the only member of the club.

adverb

No more than; exclusively.

She only has five dollars in her wallet.

Just; merely.

He was only trying to help.

At the very least.

You should only do your best.

Derived from the Old English 'ænlic' meaning 'single' or 'unique'.

only time will tell

The outcome will be revealed with time.

only a fool

Referring to someone who acts recklessly or ignorantly.

if only

Expressing a wish that something were different.

alone

Without other people; by oneself.

single

Only one; not one of several.

exclusive

Limited to a particular group or individual.

only for laughs

I posted that only for laughs, didn't think anyone would take it seriously.

only time

I'll believe it when I see it; only time will tell.