only

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /əʊnliː/, SAMPA: /@Unli:/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /oʊnli/, SAMPA: /oUnli/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Adverb

Positive only

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. no more than; no other than; just

   There are only three schools in this town.

   You can get this only in Canada.

   I'm only able to go on Monday.

   He comes only once a year.

   She only eats vegetables.

   This is only what we got.

   He's not only nice, but also good looking.

   We will stop only to rest.

   Things will only get worse.

   Only call me if you have to.

Usage notes

If only is the first word of a sentence, then the word order changes.

You should call me only when you are ready to go.

Only when you are ready to go should you call me.

Adjective

Positive only

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. Just one or just a few; this and no other; no more than this.

   She is the only woman doctor in this city.

   These are the only coins I have.

2. (usually before a noun) An only child, son, girl, etc. has no brothers or sisters.

Preposition

Preposition only

1. (informal) You use only to introduce a fact that prevents a statement from being completely true.
   • Synonyms: except and but

   They probably could do it, only you never let them try.