only this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a singular focus or limitation on a specific item or concept. Example: "I can offer you only this option for the project, as it aligns best with our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Only this.

The Guardian - Books

We want only this".

The New York Times

Only this was no gag.

The New York Times

Only this time, I'll win.

The New York Times

If only this were true.

The Economist

Only this court's vigilance has".

The New York Times

It's only this big!

The Guardian - Books

Only this was art.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The latest fell only this week.

The New York Times - Sports

Only this year, they didn't.

Yale University

Only this summer will tell.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only this" to clearly and concisely emphasize a singular point, action, or condition, ensuring that the focus remains unambiguous.

Common error

Avoid using "only this" in overly complex sentences where its meaning becomes obscured; instead, restructure for clarity or use a more precise alternative phrase.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial modifier, restricting or emphasizing a specific element. It functions to single out something and can serve to highlight its importance or uniqueness within a given context. The Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only this" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to emphasize a singular focus or limitation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's versatility enables its application across diverse contexts, although it's particularly prevalent in news, academic, and formal communications. When writing, ensure its usage adds clarity rather than complexity. Consider alternatives like "just this", "merely this" or "solely this" to fine-tune the intended nuance. "Only this" provides a clear and concise way to highlight a specific element while excluding others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just this

Expresses a very similar idea with a slightly more informal tone.

merely this

Emphasizes the smallness or insignificance of what is being referred to.

solely this

Highlights that nothing else is involved or applicable.

exclusively this

Stresses the exclusion of all other possibilities or options.

simply this

Focuses on the straightforward or uncomplicated nature of the point.

nothing but this

Highlights that nothing else matters or is relevant.

just this one

Specifies that the focus is on a single item or instance.

precisely this

Emphasizes the accuracy or exactness of what is being referred to.

uniquely this

Highlights the singularity or distinctiveness of the item or concept.

particularly this

Singles out something special or of particular note

FAQs

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

"Only this" can be used to emphasize a single item, condition, or action. For example, "I need "only this" one thing to complete the task."

What are some alternatives to "only this"?

Alternatives to "only this" include "just this", "merely this", or "solely this". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to use "only this" or "just this"?

"Only this" tends to be slightly more formal than "just this", although both are generally acceptable in most contexts. The choice often comes down to personal preference and the overall tone of your writing.

Can "only this" be used at the beginning of a sentence?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "only this" can sometimes sound awkward. Consider rephrasing the sentence for better flow. For example, instead of "Only this will solve the problem", you could say "This alone will solve the problem".