solely

adverb

sole·ly ˈsō(l)-lē

Synonyms of solely

: to the exclusion of all else

done solely for money

: 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

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.

On another metric, which looks solely at the serve itself (rather than how the point plays out) to generate a 0-10 rating, Shelton comes in fifth on tour. — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Some are starting small private businesses solely to afford the tickets to leave. — Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 31 Aug. 2026 But don't choose a private loan solely because its APR is below the federal rate. — Amy Deyoung, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026 Finally, a California appellate court ruled non-residents working outside the state are not subject to California tax solely for being paid by a California company, a key win for remote talent. — Schuyler Moore, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 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

See more words from the same century

Browse Nearby Words

soleless

solely

solemn

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Cite this Entry

Style

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

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Kids Definition

solely

adverb

sole·ly ˈsō(l)-lē

: without another : singly, alone

: only entry 2 sense 1a

done solely for money

solely

adverb

Synonyms of solely

Examples of solely in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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