Only: limiting a statement in Spanish

The idea

Solamente means only. Place it near the person, thing or action it limits; context helps identify the scope.

Examples

• Solamente mi hermano conoce la respuesta.Only my brother knows the answer.
• Compré solamente pan en el mercado.I bought only bread at the market.
• Hoy solamente quiero descansar.Today I only want to rest.
• La biblioteca abre solamente los sábados.The library opens only on Saturdays.
• En la caja hay solamente dos monedas.There are only two coins in the box.
• Mis amigas solamente miran el mapa.My friends only look at the map.

Watch out

Do not assume it always limits the whole sentence: moving it can change which part is exclusive.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct word: ___ mi padre tiene la llave; nadie más la tiene. (Solamente / También)

   Show answer or example answer

   solamente

   Solamente: the sentence excludes other people as answer holders.

2. Choose the correct word: En la tienda compramos ___ leche, nada más. (solamente / también)

   Show answer or example answer

   solamente

   Solamente: bread is the only item bought.

3. Choose the correct word: Esta tarde quiero ___ dormir, no trabajar. (solamente / también)

   Show answer or example answer

   solamente

   Solamente: resting is the only desired action.

Use it today

Say who alone knows something, what you bought and what you want to do.