ENGLISH
REFERENCE

solely

adv. degree
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈsoʊəɫi// UK //sˈəʊlli// sole·ly

adv. only and not involving anyone or anything else. You use this to show that there is just one reason, person, or thing involved.

adv. exclusively or only; to the exclusion of all else.


SIMPLE

She is solely responsible for the project's success.

CONTEXTUAL

The decision was based solely on the evidence presented during the trial, ignoring any outside rumors.

COMPLEX

While the committee considered several factors, the final selection was determined solely by the candidate's previous experience in international law.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English soly, sooly, soolly, equivalent to sole + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed before the adjective, adverb, or prepositional phrase it modifies; it can also follow the verb 'to be'.

Pitfall

He solely works hereHe works here solelyWhen modifying a verb to mean 'only', it often sounds more natural at the end of the clause or immediately before the specific detail it limits.

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