solely

adverb

sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē How to pronounce solely (audio)
1
: to the exclusion of all else
done solely for money
2
: without another : singly
went solely on her way

Examples of solely in a Sentence

His rank was based solely on merit. You will be held solely responsible for any damage. She did not write solely for money.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Leaders must proactively engage rather than rely solely on receiving value. 2. Chaitra Vedullapalli, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024 The proof is also in the 20,000 purchases of this Plum Blossom kit that happened solely this month. Melissa Epifano, EW.com, 27 Nov. 2024 As such, any actions taken to gain better pay, working conditions, and benefits were based solely upon workers' right to assemble under the First Amendment and their willingness to strike. Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024 Following a weeklong trial, a jury, which consisted solely of white jurors, according to the Associated Press, found Lorincz guilty of manslaughter with a firearm on Aug. 16. Emily Mae Czachor, CBS News, 26 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for solely 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of solely was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near solely

Cite this Entry

“Solely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solely. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

solely

adverb
sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē How to pronounce solely (audio)
1
: without another : singly, alone
2
: only entry 2 sense 1a
done solely for money

More from Merriam-Webster on solely

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