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VocabJLPT N3

merely

PrenominalAdverb

Definitions

1. only
2. merely

This adverb emphasizes a surprisingly small amount or number, similar to "only" or "just" in English. It carries a sense of surprise or disappointment that the quantity is so small.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

Is it really worth making such a fuss? It was all just a one-word misunderstanding.

Sentence 2

It only takes five minutes to get to the station.

Sentence 3

Wait, only a hundred yen?

Sentence 4

"One word changed the whole atmosphere," he said.

Sentence 5

The president said, "There's only one reason."