C1adverbformalacademiclanguage
US/ˈsoʊl.li/
UK/ˈsəʊl.li/
only, and not involving anyone or anything else
In context
The decision was based solely on the results of the final exam.
She is solely responsible for the success of the project.
The website exists solely to help students find cheap housing.
Words that go with solely
adverb + adjective
- solely responsibleParents are not solely responsible for their children’s behavior.
- solely dependentThe town is solely dependent on tourism.
adverb + verb
- based solely onPrices are based solely on demand.
verb + adverb
- focus solely onThis year the company will focus solely on its home market.
- depend solely onSuccess does not depend solely on talent.
- rely solely onDo not rely solely on online reviews.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is solely only responsible.Correct: He is solely responsible.