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

This lets maintenance personnel work through procedures virtually rather than relying solely on access to a physical aircraft. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

Firms do not apply or pay to be considered, and inclusion and ranking are based solely on the list's methodology. — Kate Dore, Cfp®, Ea,kelli Grant, Cfp®, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026

Fox Nation is set to premiere a docuseries about the life of illusionist Harry Houdini — with visuals generated solely using artificial intelligence. — Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 8 Oct. 2026

Israel is not solely responsible for the persistence of hellish conditions in Gaza. — Khaled Elgindy, Foreign Affairs, 8 Oct. 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