What does solely mean?
Solely means exclusively or only, with no other person, thing, purpose, or reason involved. It is especially useful when explaining the sole basis for a decision, the complete extent of someone’s responsibility, or the absence of any contributing factor. For example, a report may say that a change was made solely to reduce costs, while a contract may state that one person is solely responsible for maintaining the equipment. The word has a formal, precise tone and is common in professional, legal, and editorial writing, although only is more usual in conversation. Solely is an adverb derived from sole, so it describes the manner or scope of an action rather than a person or object directly.
adverbOnly; exclusively, without any other person, thing, purpose, or reason involved.
- Exclusively; only.
- By itself, with no other person, factor, purpose, or reason involved.
"The decision was solely based on the available evidence."
"She is solely responsible for arranging the meeting."
"The material was selected solely because of its durability."
Solely is the precise adverb for saying that something happens without help, contribution, or influence from anything else.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solely come from?
Solely is formed in the 16th century from the adjective sole and the adverbial suffix -ly. Sole itself comes through Old French from Latin solus, meaning alone or sole. Related words such as solitary and solitude continue the same Latin root.
How solely is actually used
Solely is formal and often appears in professional, legal, and editorial contexts. In informal speech, only is more common. It can emphasize that no other explanation, contribution, or motive applies.
Easily confused with solely
Sole means the only one of a kind or existing alone, whereas solely is an adverb meaning exclusively or only.
Solo means performed or done by one person, often without accompaniment, while solely means exclusively or without any other factor.