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

The new ruling vacates the ban and sets aside visa denials made solely on the basis of the policy. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 24 Aug. 2026

Data centers are not solely responsible for those costs, but rapidly rising demand is adding pressure to a grid where major transmission projects can take years to permit and build. — Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

The judge's order also vacates visa denials that were based solely on the policy. — Laura Romero, ABC News, 22 Aug. 2026

Perhaps that’s why Perez’s place in Royals history can’t be explained solely by the home runs, Gold Gloves, All-Star appearances or even that ground ball down the third-base line in 2014. — Kansas City Star, 22 Aug. 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