Which word means 'just, simply, only'?

• A. merely
• B. partly
• C. fully
• D. solely

Answer: (A)

The idea here is to find a word that conveys “just, simply, only.” Merely fits that sense perfectly because it signals that nothing more is involved than what is stated. It’s a neutral, everyday way to say that something is only or simply the case. For example: “The answer was merely a guess.” “This event was merely a formality.”

Partly means not entirely, so it implies some degree other than full; fully means completely; and solely emphasizes exclusivity or restriction in a stronger, sometimes more formal way. So while solely could also convey “only,” merjustly captures the intended light, plain sense of “just” or “only” in typical usage.