that is only

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is only" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is limited to a certain amount or time. For example: We can only stay for one night, that is only if we can find a place to stay.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, that is only partially true.

The Economist

In percentage terms, that is only 6%.

BBC

That is only right.

The Economist

That is only speculation.

The New York Times

That is only natural.

Independent

That is only partly true.

The Economist

That is only moderately useful.

The Economist

That is only the beginning.

The New York Times - Sports

That is only true technically.

The New York Times

That is only mild hyperbole.

The New York Times

But that is only right.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is only" to clearly define the boundaries or limitations of a statement, ensuring your audience understands the specific scope you are addressing.

Common error

Avoid using "that is only" when a more encompassing statement is actually intended. Ensure the limitation you are implying is accurate and justified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is only" serves as a qualifier or limiter, restricting the scope or extent of a statement. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It helps to set boundaries around an idea or fact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that is only" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to impose limitations or qualifications on a statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's effective for specifying partial truths or restricted extents. Predominantly found in news and media, with applications in formal and business contexts, this phrase helps to clarify the scope of a claim. Alternatives include "that is merely" or "that is simply", offering nuanced ways to express similar restrictions. Proper usage involves ensuring the intended limitation is accurate, while common errors involve overstating the scope. Therefore, understand its role in setting precise boundaries to enhance clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is merely

Emphasizes the insignificance or limited nature of something.

that is just

Indicates that something is no more than the stated amount or condition.

that is simply

Highlights the straightforward or uncomplicated nature of a situation, often implying it's not comprehensive.

that is solely

Indicates exclusivity, emphasizing that something is limited to one particular thing.

that is partially

Highlights that something is true to some extent but not entirely.

that is partly

Similar to 'partially', this indicates that something is true in some aspects.

that is exclusively

Indicates that something applies only to a specific instance or group.

that amounts to only

Highlights the result of something, showing it's limited in scope.

that is restricted to

Indicates that something is limited or confined to certain parameters.

that is confined to

Similar to 'restricted to', it indicates a limitation to a specific area or scope.

FAQs

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

Use "that is only" to specify a restriction or limitation. For example, "The refund applies to the base price; "that is only" the cost of the product itself".

What can I say instead of "that is only"?

You can use alternatives like "that is merely", "that is simply", or "that is partially" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that is only half the story"?

Yes, "that is only half the story" is a common and grammatically correct expression. It indicates that there's more to the situation than what has been presented so far.

What's the difference between "that is only" and "that's it"?

"That is only" implies a limitation or a partial aspect of something, while "that's it" indicates completion or finality. For example, "That is only the first step" suggests more will follow, while "That's it" means there is nothing more.