Merely — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adverb /ˈmir-lē/ mere·ly

Meaning & Definition of Merely

Merely (adverb)

  1. nothing more than, only

Merely (adverb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. nothing more than

    "the outside noise was merely a raccoon knocking over the garbage can"

    similar: but, just, only, purely, simply

Related Entry: Mere (adjective)

Mere is a different word from Merely. The synonyms below are for mere, not for merely.

  1. being this and no more

    "the mere idea of your traveling alone to Europe is ridiculous"

    similar: bare, very
    related: absolute, all-out, arrant, out-and-out, outright, pure, sheer, simple, stark, total, unadulterated, unalloyed, unmitigated, unqualified, utter, alone, lone, only, singular, sole, solitary, solo, unique

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Merely

The most common words with a similar meaning to Merely:

but, just, only, purely, simply

Origin & Etymology of Merely

First known use: circa 1580

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Merely

Words & Phrases Containing Merely

not merely, not just/only/merely

Frequently Asked Questions about Merely

What does "Merely" mean?

"Merely" means nothing more than, only. As an adverb, it is defined as: nothing more than, only.

What is another word for "Merely"?

Other words for "Merely" include but, just, only, purely and simply. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Merely" you intend.

How do you use "Merely" in a sentence?

Examples of "Merely" in a sentence: "the outside noise was merely a raccoon knocking over the garbage can".

Is "Merely" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Merely" is an adverb.

Is "Merely" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a C1-level word, "Merely" is typical of Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE), IELTS band 7.0–8.0, TOEFL iBT 95–113, PTE Academic 76–84, TOEIC Listening & Reading 945+. Advanced words like this are also useful for the GRE, SAT, GMAT, and LSAT.

How do you pronounce "Merely"?

"Merely" is pronounced /ˈmir-lē/ and divided into syllables as mere·ly.

What is the origin of the word "Merely"?

First known use: circa 1580.

What is another word for "Merely" meaning "nothing more than"?

When "Merely" (adverb) means nothing more than, synonyms include but, just, only, purely and simply.