reserved only for

USAGE SUMMARY

"reserved only for" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are specifically referring to something that is meant for a specific purpose or person. For example, "This seat is reserved only for the bride's family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This treatment his father reserved only for his oldest friends.

The New Yorker

For his love is reserved only for his Creator.

The Economist

Her cutting wit was not reserved only for Muslims, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or is that an honor reserved only for the elders?

The New York Times

Sometimes the masks used are reserved only for initiations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The hangman's job is reserved only for men.

The Guardian

Hell is reserved only for the most evil.

The New York Times - Books

But bunks are not reserved only for twins.

The New York Times

Health care is a right, not a privilege reserved only for those who can afford it.

The Washington Post

That anticipation is now reserved only for days when Santana starts.

The New York Times - Sports

This kind of dual qualification cannot be reserved only for the affluent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the unique suitability or intention, consider using alternatives like "specifically for" or "intended only for".

Common error

Avoid using "reserved only for" in casual conversation or informal writing; simpler alternatives like "just for" or "only for" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reserved only for" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often used to modify nouns or noun phrases. Its function is to indicate exclusivity and restriction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

28%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reserved only for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies exclusivity. As Ludwig AI points out, it is commonly used to specify that something is strictly intended for a particular group or purpose, excluding others. Analysis of examples reveals that it is most prevalent in news and media, academic writing and encyclopedias and as a result, it presents a neutral to formal tone. When aiming for a more casual tone, it may be appropriate to consider simpler alternatives such as "just for" or "only for". Numerous alternative phrases such as "exclusively for", "solely for", or "intended only for" can be used to convey a similar meaning, with subtle differences in emphasis. The phrase is considered grammatically correct and its usage is well-supported by a wealth of real-world examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only for

A shorter version that implies the same meaning, reducing redundancy.

exclusively for

Replaces "reserved only" with "exclusively", emphasizing the limited access.

solely for

Similar to "exclusively for", but with a stronger sense of being the only option.

meant only for

Similar to "intended only for", highlighting the purpose or target.

intended only for

Focuses on the intended recipients or purpose, rather than the act of reserving.

specifically for

Emphasizes the particular or precise nature of the intended use or recipient.

designated for

Highlights the act of officially assigning something to a specific use or group.

restricted to

Emphasizes the limitation or constraint on who or what can access something.

set aside for

Focuses on the act of allocating or earmarking something for a particular purpose.

kept only for

Emphasizes the act of maintaining something exclusively for a specific use or recipient.

FAQs

How can I use "reserved only for" in a sentence?

Use "reserved only for" to specify that something is exclusively intended for a particular group or purpose, like "This parking space is reserved only for employees."

What are some alternatives to "reserved only for"?

You can use alternatives such as "exclusively for", "solely for", or "intended only for" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "reserved only for"?

Yes, "reserved only for" is grammatically correct and widely used. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

What's the difference between "reserved for" and "reserved only for"?

"Reserved for" indicates that something is designated for a specific purpose or group, while "reserved only for" emphasizes that it is exclusively for that purpose or group, excluding all others. The addition of "only" amplifies the exclusivity.