Cool MateSolely vs There is only one
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Solely
Top 3,000 (common)C1adverb
There is only one
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: There is only one
| Solely | There is only one | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈsəʊlli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈsəʊlli/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ðeəɹ ɪz ˈoʊnli wʌn//🇺🇸 //ðɛr ɪz ˈoʊnli wʌn// |
| Meaning | Only; nothing else. | It means there is just one thing or person. |
| Example | She was motivated solely by self-interest. | In the collection, there is only one rare coin. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 3,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | - |
| Part of speech | adverb | |
| Collocations | solely responsible, solely focused, solely for the purpose | there is only one answer, there is only one solution, there is only one way |
| Antonyms | jointly, together, collectively | - |
| Common mistakes | Using 'solely' when 'only' is more appropriate., Confusing 'solely' with 'solidly'., Placing 'solely' at the beginning of a sentence incorrectly. | Using it in places where plural items are referred., Adding unnecessary words that confuse the meaning. |
| Usage notes | Use 'solely' in formal or written contexts to emphasize exclusivity. Avoid in casual spoken language. | Use this phrase to emphasize the uniqueness of something. It is appropriate in formal and informal settings but should be avoided in overly technical discussions. |
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Frequently asked questions: Solely vs There is only one
What's the difference between Solely and There is only one?
Solely: Only; nothing else. There is only one: It means there is just one thing or person.
Which is more common: Solely and There is only one?
There is only one is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Solely: She was motivated solely by self-interest. There is only one: In the collection, there is only one rare coin.
Can I use Solely and There is only one interchangeably?
Not always. Solely and There is only one are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.