1
: to the exclusion of all else
done solely for money
2
: without another : singly
went solely on her way
Examples of solely in a Sentence
His rank was based solely on merit.
You will be held solely responsible for any damage.
She did not write solely for money.
Recent Examples on the Web
In 1987, Indiana University established the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the world's first school solely dedicated to the study and teaching of philanthropy, and Leach was invited to be a member of its Board of Visitors.
—
William Mullane, USA TODAY, 11 May 2024
In order to participate in the contest, a country has to be an active member of the European Broadcasting Union, which organizes Eurovision, so eligibility is not solely dependent on geography.
—Chantelle Lee, TIME, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for solely 
William Mullane, USA TODAY, 11 May 2024
In order to participate in the contest, a country has to be an active member of the European Broadcasting Union, which organizes Eurovision, so eligibility is not solely dependent on geography.
—Chantelle Lee, TIME, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for solely
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'solely.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near solely
Cite this Entry
“Solely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solely. Accessed 17 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
solely
adverb
sole·ly
ˈsō(l)-lē 
2
: only entry 2 sense 1a
done solely for money
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