ONLY Synonyms: 244 Similar and Opposite Words

only 1 of 3

adverb

Definition of only next

as in just

for nothing other than you're doing that only to annoy me

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in lately

not long ago we won the election only six days ago

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in merely

nothing more than I was only fooling when I said I saw a shark in the water

Synonyms & Similar Words

only

2 of 3

adjective

ˈōn-lē

as in excellent

having no equal or rival for excellence or desirability the only way to really appreciate the beauty of the forest is to walk through it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in one

being the one or ones of a class with no other members that is the only possible right answer we were the only passengers on the tour bus

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

only

3 of 3

conjunction

as in but

if it were not for the fact that that's a very nice idea, only it won't help

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 only

Adverb

The concern is not only the surge in killings, but the increasing brazenness with which they are carried out. —

Zeena Saifi, CNN Money, 15 Feb. 2026 But because these runs are judged, and time counts for only 20% of the score, with jumps and precision through the moguls counting for the rest, Lamley edged out the Canadian for third. —

ABC News, 14 Feb. 2026

Adjective

The only problem is that she has not been paid for most of her work due to the Sacramento City Unified School District’s ongoing financial crisis. —

Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 5 Feb. 2026 The only role that’s set is the closer role with Devin Williams slotted in to finish games. —

Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for only

Recent Examples of Synonyms for only

Adverb

While both are hoping to get their hands on a medal, Smith is just relishing the chance of competing at his very first Olympics after recovering from several serious injuries in recent seasons.

— Ben Church, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
The rooms All rooms and suites at La Sultana Oualidia have their own elegant personality, and with just 12 to choose from, the care and precision which has gone into each design is palpable.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Feb. 2026