Thesaurus results for MERELY

merely

adverb

ˈmir-lē

Definition of merely next

as in just

nothing more than the outside noise was merely a raccoon knocking over the garbage can

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of merely Fire and ice do clash beautifully, but the action here is merely serviceable, and dark. —

Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 18 Apr. 2026 Fire and ice do clash beautifully, but the action here is merely serviceable, and dark. —

Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 17 Apr. 2026 For the first time in more than a decade, the Chiefs will enter the NFL Draft not merely after failing to make the playoffs, but coming off their first losing season of the Andy Reid era. —

Kansas City Star, 17 Apr. 2026 This prospect may not be merely hypothetical, as United Airlines and American Airlines have reportedly discussed merging into one company. —

Justin Klawans, TheWeek, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for merely

Recent Examples of Synonyms for merely

Adverb

Slow it down just enough to map the next step clearly.

— Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 22 Apr. 2026
Limited production, self-distribution, and low visibility can all play a role, and without intentional effort to build demand and relationships, their wines can remain just as absent from local lists.

— Maryam Ahmed, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Apr. 2026