- used to say that no other or others of the same group exist or are there
- She's their only daughter.
- We were the only people there.
- His only answer was a grunt.
- I was not the only one with moist eyes at the end of the film.
- The only way he can express himself is through violence.
- The only reason for this crisis is poor planning.
- This might be the only time in my life I have this opportunity.
- The only real difference between them is their packaging.
- That's the only possible explanation I can find.
- I have no choice. The only other option is to resign.
- used to say that somebody/something is the best and you would not choose any other
- She's the only person for the job.
- Joe's diner is the only place to eat when you 're staying in New York.
Word OriginOld English ānlic (adjective) (see one, -ly).
Idioms
See only in the Oxford Advanced American DictionarySee only in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic Englishin name only
- officially recognized but not existing in reality
- He's party leader in name only.
one and only
- used to emphasize that somebody is famous
- Here she is, the one and only Rihanna!
the only thing is…
- (informal) used before mentioning a worry or problem you have with something
- I'd love to come—the only thing is I might be late.
Check pronunciation:
only