Spanish Conversation · Level 4
87 words
Spanish word
solo
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈsolo/
Meaning
- adverbonly
Example
Voy a comer solo una manzana.
I'm going to eat only one apple.
More examples
Vino solo para saludar.
He came only to say hello.
Core concept
A single bright object among many faded ones.
Common phrases
solo una manzana
only one apple
solo una vez
only once
solo para mí
only for me
Similar words
solamente: Signals a clear restriction to a particular number or set.
únicamente: Identifies something as the only one that fits or qualifies.
tan solo: Highlights an amount or time that is just a tiny bit.
exclusivamente: Restricts applicability to the named item or category alone.
Definition in Spanish
Marca que algo es exclusivo o que sucede sin compañía; el sentido concreto depende del contexto y de la colocación en la frase.
Word origin
From Latin solus 'alone', originally an adjective that expanded into adverbial use in Spanish, giving both exclusivity ('only') and solitary senses.
Usage tips
- Placement changes meaning: before a noun or with numbers it usually limits quantity, but with verbs like estar it denotes being alone, and if writing is ambiguous prefer 'solamente' or a rephrase.