B2adverbformallanguage
US/ˈmɪr.li/
UK/ˈmɪə.li/
only, and nothing more or better
In context
I was merely asking a question, not trying to argue.
This is merely the first step in a long process.
He is not merely a singer; he also writes his own songs.
Words that go with merely
adverb + verb
- merely aIt was merely a mistake.
- not merelyShe is not merely clever but also kind.
- merely becauseDon't reject it merely because it is new.
- merely toHe came merely to say goodbye.
- merely mentionI will merely mention the main points.