C1adjective 2K

Mere

🇬🇧 UK /["/mɪə(r)/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/mɪr/"]/

Meaning of Mere

used when you want to emphasize how small, unimportant, etc. somebody/something is

In simple words: just or only

Mere in a sentence

• It took her a mere 20 minutes to win.
• A mere 2 per cent of their budget has been spent on publicity.
• He seemed so young, a mere boy.
• You've got the job. The interview will be a mere formality.
• His mere presence *(= just the fact that he was there)* made her feel afraid.
• The **mere fact that** they were prepared to talk was encouraging.
• The **mere thought of** eating made him feel sick.
• The merest *(= the slightest)* hint of smoke is enough to make her feel ill.

How to use Mere

Use 'mere' to emphasize something is small or insignificant. It can sound formal in casual contexts. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone modifier

Memory hint

Mere sounds like 'mirror' — think of a small reflection, showing something is just a little bit.

Related words

Collocations with Mere

• mere coincidence
• mere presence
• mere handful
• mere suggestion

Synonyms for Mere

• only
• just
• simple
• bare
• slight

Opposites of Mere

• significant
• considerable
• substantial
• important

Common mistakes with Mere

• Confusing 'mere' with 'merely' — understanding the difference in usage.
• Using 'mere' incorrectly with plural nouns.
• Overusing 'mere' in contexts that do not require emphasis.

Frequently asked questions about Mere

What does Mere mean?

just or only

What is the definition of Mere?

used when you want to emphasize how small, unimportant, etc. somebody/something is

How do you use Mere in a sentence?

It took her a mere 20 minutes to win.

Can you give another example of Mere?

A mere 2 per cent of their budget has been spent on publicity.

What are synonyms for Mere?

Common alternatives include only, just, simple, bare, slight.

What is the opposite of Mere?

Opposite meanings include significant, considerable, substantial, important.

What words go with Mere?

It commonly pairs with mere coincidence, mere presence, mere handful, mere suggestion.

What are common mistakes when using Mere?

Confusing 'mere' with 'merely' — understanding the difference in usage. Using 'mere' incorrectly with plural nouns. Overusing 'mere' in contexts that do not require emphasis.

How do you pronounce Mere?

US: /["/mɪr/"]/, UK: /["/mɪə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Mere?

Use 'mere' to emphasize something is small or insignificant. It can sound formal in casual contexts. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Mere?

"Mere" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.