solely

adverb

sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē How to pronounce solely (audio)
Synonyms of solely
1
: to the exclusion of all else
done solely for money
2
: without another : singly
went solely on her way

Synonyms of solely

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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
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.
Horace hopes the goal of the Salvadoran reinforcements isn’t solely to find the Salvadoran soldiers ambushed by the Chen Mechan gang. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2026 This approach is intended to generate operating data directly relevant to future deployments, rather than relying solely on smaller experimental systems. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026 The record of the industry’s largest CCS sites — ones designed solely to help the climate — has been far more troubled. — Katie Worth, ProPublica, 30 Oct. 2026 If we were left solely to the wordy wit of legislators in Congress for our guidance, uncorrected by the seasonable experience and the effectual complaints of the people, America would not long retain her rank among the nations. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for solely

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of solely was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

soleless
solely
solemn
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Solely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solely. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

solely

adverb
sole·​ly ˈsō(l)-lē How to pronounce solely (audio)
1
: without another : singly, alone
2
: only entry 2 sense 1a
done solely for money
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