# solely

/ˈsoʊəɫi/ (US) · /sˈəʊlli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/solely
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

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

For teachers: exclusively or only; to the exclusion of all else.

## Examples

- She is solely responsible for the project's success.
- The decision was based solely on the evidence presented during the trial, ignoring any outside rumors.
- While the committee considered several factors, the final selection was determined solely by the candidate's previous experience in international law.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He solely works here" but "He works here solely" — When 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.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.