only enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only enough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a minimal or sufficient quantity of something, often implying that it is just adequate for a particular purpose. Example: "I have only enough money to buy groceries this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There was only enough for one".

The New Yorker

There are three factories, but only enough business for two.

The New York Times

Those bigger lifeboats have only enough room for passengers.

The New York Times

There is only enough real work for half that number.

The Economist

Berle said he would take out only enough to win".

The New Yorker

You gave me only enough money for mackerel".

The New Yorker

He's decided to budget only enough for some threats.

The Washington Post

I had only enough time to shout for my brother.

The Washington Post

But only enough to haggle with her cleaning lady.

The New Yorker

They need only enough to do the task well.

The Guardian - Tech

Now there's only enough for three against three".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "only enough", ensure the context clearly defines what the quantity is sufficient for. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "only enough" without specifying what it is enough for. For example, instead of saying "I have only enough," specify "I have "only enough" money to buy groceries."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only enough" functions primarily as a pre-modifier in a noun phrase, specifying the quantity or degree of something. It indicates that there is a sufficient amount, but no more than what is required. Ludwig examples show this in contexts like "only enough money" or "only enough time".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

23%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "only enough" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is sufficient for a particular purpose, but not abundant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When writing, it's important to provide context to clarify what "only enough" refers to. Alternatives such as "just sufficient" or "barely adequate" can be used to fine-tune the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to avoid vagueness by clearly stating what the quantity is enough for to maximize the effectiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just sufficient

Emphasizes the bare minimum needed for a particular purpose.

a sufficient amount

Indicates that the quantity is adequate for its intended use.

barely adequate

Highlights the marginal acceptability of the quantity.

an adequate quantity

Similar to 'a sufficient amount', but perhaps slightly more formal.

enough and no more

Highlights the precise fulfillment of a requirement without any surplus.

no more than necessary

Focuses on avoiding any excess beyond the required amount.

the minimum required

Specifies that the quantity meets the essential needs.

as little as possible

Suggests aiming for the smallest quantity that still fulfills the purpose.

strictly limited to

Implies a restriction on the quantity, ensuring it doesn't exceed the necessary amount.

just the right amount

Emphasizes achieving the perfect balance, avoiding too much or too little.

FAQs

How can I use "only enough" in a sentence?

You can use "only enough" to describe a quantity that is just sufficient for a particular purpose. For example, "There was "only enough" food for lunch" or "They need "only enough" to do the task well".

What are some alternatives to "only enough"?

Some alternatives include "just sufficient", "barely adequate", or "sufficient amount". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "only enough"?

Yes, "only enough" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to indicate that there is a sufficient amount, but no more than is needed.

What's the difference between "only enough" and "just enough"?

"Only enough" and "just enough" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. However, "only enough" might subtly emphasize the limitation of the quantity, whereas "just enough" focuses on its adequacy.