B2adverb3K

Purely

UK /["/ˈpjʊəli/"]/US /["/ˈpjʊrli/"]/

Definition

only; completely

In simple words: Only, just, or completely.

Examples

  • I saw the letter purely by chance.
  • The charity is run on a purely voluntary basis.
  • She took the job **purely and simply** for the money.
  • The fireplace in the bedroom is purely decorative.

Usage notes

Use 'purely' in contexts that emphasize exclusivity or completeness. It's suitable for formal writing and speech, but can be used casually as well. Avoid using it in overly informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

purely + adverb/adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'pure' like a clean slate—'purely' means nothing else is involved.

Collocations

  • purely by chance
  • purely decorative
  • purely theoretical

Synonyms

  • solely
  • only
  • entirely
  • completely
  • merely

Antonyms

  • impure
  • mixed
  • composite

Common mistakes

  • Mistakenly using 'purely' when 'just' or 'only' is more appropriate.
  • Confusing 'purely' with 'really' or 'very'.
  • Using 'purely' with nouns instead of adjectives.