Solo
/solo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "just" can be translated into Spanish as Solo.
Which one should you use?
While Solo is very common, solamente is a more formal or emphatic synonym used to mean "only" or "just".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, Tan solo is a common alternative that carries the same meaning as Solo. In Mexico and parts of Central America, the informal synonym Nomás is also used to mean "just".
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as an adverb meaning "just" or "only," Solo is invariable, meaning it does not change based on gender or number.
How do you pronounce it?
/solo/
Did you know?
- The informal term nomás is a contraction of no más, which literally translates to 'no more'.
- The word Solo is a linguistic 'twin' that can mean both 'only' and 'alone', depending on the context of the sentence.
- For decades, the Royal Spanish Academy debated whether solo meaning 'only' should have a written accent mark to distinguish it from 'alone'.
Examples in context
- Solo di que no.Just say no.This example shows how to use Solo to give a simple command.Tatoeba #1469098 by marcelostockle, translation #827234 by Scott
- No solo es eso.It's not just that.This example uses Solo to indicate that something is not merely that one thing.Tatoeba #2265063 by marcelostockle, translation #2263337 by Hybrid
- Solo es un niño.He is just a kid.This example uses Solo to describe someone's status as being merely a child.Tatoeba #2019269 by Shishir, translation #292841 by ludoviko
- Solo quiero un café.I just want a coffee.
- Necesito únicamente tu ayuda.I just need your help.
- Tan solo quiero estar solo.I just want to be alone.
- Nomás estoy preguntando.I'm just asking.
- Solo ten paciencia.Just be patient.
- Él acaba de irse.He just left.
- Acabo de terminar mi trabajo.I just finished my work.
- 823 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are talking about a recent movie.
- Sofía¿Viste la película?Did you see the movie?
- JavierNo, solo vi el tráiler.No, I just saw the trailer.
- SofíaEs muy buena, Javier.It is very good, Javier.
- JavierEntonces iré a verla pronto.Then I will go see it soon.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
