solely

adverb

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

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
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Because Jalen Williams is a year older, is a year more physically mature and has grown into an All-Star in his own right, the bulk of the playoff offense won’t fall solely into the arms of NBA MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Tony Jones, The Athletic, 10 Mar. 2025 While affordability is a significant factor in medical tourism, avoid choosing a clinic solely based on the lowest price. Christopher Elliott, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 Typically, malicious extensions or apps are created solely to steal data, with their advertised functionality being an afterthought or simply a way to get listed in an official store. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 8 Mar. 2025 Today, her company (run solely by women) occupies a 6,500-square-foot facility that makes everything from totes to glasses cases to this simple yet chic black LED purse. Toni Sutton, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Solely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solely. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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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