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 content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. —Isabella Backman, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2026

As its name suggests, the Official Vinyl Albums rundown looks solely at purchases on wax. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

While the Lone Star Cup takes activities like music, robotics, spirit, film, drama and academics into consideration, the Texas Cup is focused solely on athletics. —Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 June 2026

Instead, its price is largely determined solely by investor demand. —Mike Winters, CNBC, 12 June 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