that and only that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that and only that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize exclusivity or specificity in a statement, indicating that something is the sole focus or condition. Example: "The solution to the problem is that and only that: we must increase our budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

That and only that will make them stay for years.

TechCrunch

That and only that is the way to win the next election".

BBC

He then sent emissaries to kill Galba and Piso, and made no further promises in the assembly to win the loyalty of the soldiers than to declare that he would have that — and only that — which they should leave to him.

University of Chicago

That and only that is what we offer the boys".

Huffington Post

We found numerous pieces about that, and only that, topic on the site.

HuffPost

The lawyers deserving respect do that and only that; they wouldn't ever touch commodity work; and they'll rid themselves of colleagues who do.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The reality is that work experience – and only that – will teach work skills.

The Guardian - Opinion

It might even be our religion from which the world and all peoples learn good, and for that reason and only that reason do we suffer.

The Guardian

I'm going to spend the next two years researching that date, and only that date, in America, and then present it in a wide-angle, panoramic fashion.

The Washington Post

So the mezzo-soprano singing the role must wear a body microphone during that scene, and only that scene, Mr. Gelb said.

The New York Times - Arts

She is loyal to her country because that country, and only that country, is her country; hers is a loyalty "in the first instance".

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that and only that" to clearly demarcate the single, critical element or condition, avoiding ambiguity. It's especially useful when setting precise requirements or describing unique solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "that and only that" in simple sentences where the exclusivity is already clear. This phrase adds emphasis and specificity, so reserve it for situations where the exclusive nature is crucial to the message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that and only that" functions as an intensifier, emphasizing the exclusivity of a condition or element. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its role in highlighting specificity. For instance, "The lawyers deserving respect do that and only that".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that and only that" is a phrase used to emphasize exclusivity and specificity. While grammatically correct and versatile, Ludwig AI analysis indicates it's most common in news and media contexts. It serves to eliminate ambiguity and highlight the sole condition or element. When writing, reserve it for situations where emphasizing exclusivity is essential, and avoid overuse in simple sentences. As Ludwig confirms, phrases like "just that" or "solely that" may be suitable alternatives depending on the level of emphasis you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

and nothing else

Emphasizes the absence of alternatives, similar to the original phrase.

solely that

Highlights that something is the only factor or condition.

exclusively that

Similar to 'solely that', indicating a unique focus.

just that

A more concise way of expressing the same exclusivity.

that alone

A shorter alternative stressing the lack of other requirements.

only that one thing

Adds a more descriptive emphasis on the singular aspect.

precisely that

Indicates accuracy and specificity in the selection.

specifically that

Emphasizes focused attention to the designated thing.

and not something else

Emphasizes the exclusion of alternatives.

just that and nothing more

Combines brevity and completeness in specifying the single element.

FAQs

How can I use "that and only that" in a sentence?

Use "that and only that" to emphasize that something is the sole factor or condition. For instance, "The key to success is hard work, and "hard work" and only that."

What phrases are similar to "that and only that"?

Alternatives include "just that", "solely that", or "nothing else", depending on the context and desired level of emphasis.

Is there a difference between "that and only that" and "just that"?

While both phrases indicate exclusivity, "that and only that" provides a stronger emphasis. Use "just that" in less formal situations where a simple indication of exclusivity suffices.

Can "that and only that" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "that and only that" is suitable for formal writing when used to specify a unique condition or requirement. Ensure the context warrants the emphasis this phrase provides.