more than only

USAGE SUMMARY

"more than only" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that something has multiple aspects or components. For example: "This job requires more than only hard work; it also requires creativity and resilience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's more than only parents.

The Guardian - Sport

"But there was something more than only friendship".

The New York Times

But it's exponentially more than only a few years ago.

The Washington Post

The law and related regulations cover much more than only fields and locker rooms.

The New York Times - Sports

For me it's more than only the road to the gold.

The New York Times

The idea of a second game cost far more than "only a dollar".

The New York Times

"We are waiting on that boost because that can give you more than only the result," said Van Gaal.

The Guardian - Sport

The rails could transport much more than only people, although for the most part, they do not.

The New York Times

It is more than only winning and losing – I think a lot of people see a different team, a different sport than a few years ago.

The Guardian - Sport

The protracted lessons of Iraq and Afghanistan weigh heavily, and the language of the resolution appears to allow more than only defensive or reactive military measures.

The Guardian

When Tennessee plays Louisiana State on Saturday night in the Southeastern Conference championship game in Atlanta, the Volunteers may have the support of more than only their fans.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more than only" to emphasize that a situation or concept has multiple facets or implications that extend beyond a single, limited perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "more than only" when a simpler phrase like "more than" suffices. Overusing "only" can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more than only" primarily functions as a comparative qualifier. It serves to emphasize that something exceeds a basic or limited aspect, indicating additional elements or considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

46%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more than only" functions as a comparative qualifier to emphasize that something extends beyond a basic or limited perspective. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in scientific and news publications. While "more than only" is generally neutral in register, it's essential to avoid redundancy by using simpler alternatives when appropriate. By understanding its multifaceted nature and considering the context, you can effectively use "more than only" to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more than simply

Similar to "not merely", but with added emphasis on the surpassing aspect.

beyond just

Indicates a scope that extends beyond a basic or limited aspect.

not merely

Emphasizes that something is not simply what it appears to be, but something greater.

above and beyond

Indicates exceeding expectations or requirements.

rather than solely

Suggests a preference for a broader perspective instead of a singular one.

surpassing just

Emphasizes the act of exceeding or going beyond a basic condition.

in excess of

Highlights the abundance or surplus beyond a certain limit.

more expansive than

Highlights the greater scope or range involved.

extending beyond

Focuses on the act of reaching or going past a defined boundary.

transcending merely

Suggests rising above a simple or basic level to something higher.

FAQs

How can I use "more than only" in a sentence?

Use "more than only" to indicate that something involves additional elements or aspects beyond what might be initially expected. For instance, "Success requires "more than only hard work"; it also demands strategic planning and adaptability".

What are some alternatives to "more than only"?

Alternatives include "beyond just", "not merely", and "more than simply". These phrases can add nuance to your writing while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "more than only"?

Yes, "more than only" is grammatically correct and widely used to emphasize that something exceeds a basic level or expectation. It is acceptable in both formal and informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "more than only" instead of "more than just"?

"More than only" is best used when emphasizing that something involves additional aspects or functions beyond a single, limited one. "More than just" is often used to express that something is not merely what it appears to be but also possesses other qualities.