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 of solely

• 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, or its parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, internet or another medium. —Jeff Kilburg, CNBC, 8 May 2026

Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances. —Jon Stojan, USA Today, 8 May 2026

As retailers like Sephora UK are demonstrating, this transformation is not solely about enhancing their commercial performance. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 8 May 2026

In a 41-40 win over Notre Dame earlier in the year, Bateman said, York would point at the sky or point at the ground pre-snap to indicate pass or run solely based on how Fighting Irish quarterback CJ Carr was standing. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 8 May 2026

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