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
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.
For entrepreneurs, this is a crucial lesson: don’t rely solely on third parties to handle production; immerse yourself in the process. Melissa Houston, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Historically, Universal Standard ran its high-growth business solely through a direct-to-consumer model. Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 21 Mar. 2025 The company, which used to rely solely on subscriptions and premium add-ons for money, previously viewed the idea of ads on Discord as intrusive. Ars Technica, 20 Mar. 2025 In contrast, the study found that 18 of these users, under the influence of solely alcohol, spent 40% or more of the time above the speed limit. Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 20 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 29 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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