A1adverb1K

Just

UK /["/dʒʌst/"]/US /["/dʒʌst/"]/

Definition

only

In simple words: Only or exactly.

Examples

  • I just finished my homework.
  • She is just so talented!
  • We just need to wait a little longer.
  • That's just what I was thinking.
  • I want to just relax this weekend.
  • He just arrived at the party.
  • The movie was just amazing!
  • You just have to believe in yourself.
  • It's just a small problem, we can fix it.
  • I just saw that show last night.

Usage notes

Use 'just' to indicate something that is recent or to emphasize that something is the only thing or the most simple example. It might be informal or casual when used in conversations.

Grammar pattern

just + verb/adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'just' as 'just one' — only one option.

Collocations

  • just finished
  • just in case
  • just a moment

Synonyms

  • only
  • merely
  • simply
  • exactly
  • recently

Antonyms

  • unjust
  • unfair

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'fair' meaning just/balanced.
  • Overused in formal contexts.
  • Misplaced 'just' leading to unclear sentences.