Meaning of 'only'

adjective

being the only one

Synonyms: sole

adverb

and nothing more

Synonyms: just

adverb

without any others being included or involved

Synonyms: entirely

adverb

with nevertheless the final result

Example: "I arrived on time only to find the bus had already left."

adverb

in the final outcome

Example: "These news will only make you more upset"

adverb

as recently as

Example: "I spoke to them only an hour ago."

adverb

except that

adverb

never except when

Example: "call me only if your cold gets worse"

Synonyms: only if

adjective

exclusive of anyone or anything else

Synonyms: alone