this is merely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is merely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to downplay the significance of something or to indicate that what follows is not substantial or important. Example: "This is merely a suggestion, and you are free to choose your own path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Often this is merely hype.

The New Yorker

But this is merely my own speculation.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is merely life and death.

The New York Times

But this is merely an educated guess.

The Economist

This is merely one of them.

The New Yorker

"This is merely one step".

The New York Times

This is merely an absurd metaphor.

The Washington Post

Have patience: this is merely my model".

The Guardian - Books

This is merely taxation by stealth.

The Guardian

Keep it light, remembering that this is merely a conflict.

Columbia University

This is merely a suggested format for a constitution.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is merely" to provide context by underscoring that the fact or situation you're discussing is not the complete picture, and may require additional information or consideration to be fully understood.

Common error

Avoid using "this is merely" to diminish something important or substantial. Ensure the context aligns with downplaying a specific aspect, not the entire subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is merely" functions as a qualifier or downtoner. It serves to limit the scope or impact of a statement, suggesting that something is not as significant or comprehensive as it might appear. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

20%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is merely" is a versatile phrase used to downplay or qualify a statement, providing context and preventing overestimation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, as highlighted by the numerous examples. To ensure correct usage, avoid using it to diminish truly important subjects and keep it focused on qualifying specific aspects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is simply

Replaces "merely" with "simply", indicating a lack of complexity or importance.

this is just

Uses "just" instead of "merely", suggesting that something is only what it appears to be and nothing more.

this is only

Emphasizes that something is limited to a specific aspect or extent.

this is purely

Indicates that something is exclusively and entirely of a certain nature.

this is solely

Highlights that something is exclusively responsible or relevant.

this is but

A more formal way of saying "this is only", often used in literary contexts.

this is largely

Suggests that something is mainly or mostly of a certain type or condition.

this is essentially

Indicates that something is fundamentally or basically of a certain nature.

this is fundamentally

Emphasizes the basic or essential nature of something.

this is basically

Similar to "essentially", but slightly less formal.

FAQs

How can I use "this is merely" in a sentence?

Use "this is merely" to introduce a statement that clarifies a limited scope or significance. For example, "This is merely a suggestion, not a requirement."

What phrases are similar to "this is merely"?

Alternatives include "this is simply", "this is just", or "this is only", all of which downplay the importance or extent of something.

When is it appropriate to use "this is merely"?

It's appropriate when you want to ensure the audience doesn't overestimate the importance or impact of a detail. Use it to provide perspective.

What's the difference between "this is merely" and "this is essentially"?

"This is merely" reduces emphasis, suggesting something is less important than perceived. In contrast, "this is essentially" highlights the core or fundamental nature of something.