solely

adverb

sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē 

1

: to the exclusion of all else

done solely for money

2

: without another : singly

went solely on her way

Synonyms

• only
• purely
• exclusively
• just
• simply

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

All opinions expressed by the CNBC Pro contributors are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of CNBC, NBC UNIVERSAL, their parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, internet or another medium. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 30 Oct. 2025

Deen said the union’s involvement in the Railyards was solely motivated by a lack of housing for working-class people like its members. —Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2025

According to Pearcy, his passion isn’t reserved solely for cinderblocks. —Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025

Though the amenities are impressive, the application process centers solely on the dogs. —Avery Stone, HollywoodReporter, 29 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

solely

adverb

sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē 

1

: without another : singly, alone

2

: only entry 2 sense 1a

done solely for money