Is purely formal or informal?

Purely is slightly formal and common in writing, especially in explanations and reports.

What is the difference between purely and only?

Only is more direct and everyday. Purely often sounds more careful and formal.

Can I say purely for emphasis?

Yes. It can strongly show that one reason or purpose is the whole reason.

← Dictionary

purely

/ˈpjʊə.li/

IELTSAcademic

adverb

Used to mean only, completely, or for one reason. It shows that nothing else is involved.

I made the decision purely for practical reasons.
This is purely a technical issue.
She was purely curious, not rude.

Adinary Nuance

Purely is close to simply, only, and entirely, but it often sounds a little more formal. Use purely when you want to stress that one reason, purpose, or quality is the only one involved. It is common in writing, reports, and careful speech.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thuần túy
Spanish: puramente
Chinese: 纯粹地
Japanese: 純粋に
Korean: 순전히

Etymology

Purely comes from pure + -ly. It has been used in English since the 14th century to mean in a pure or complete way.

Common phrases

purely forpurely decorativepurely academicpurely personal

Synonyms

simply only entirely completely

Related words

pure merely solely strictly

Frequently asked questions

Is purely formal or informal?: Purely is slightly formal and common in writing, especially in explanations and reports.
What is the difference between purely and only?: Only is more direct and everyday. Purely often sounds more careful and formal.
Can I say purely for emphasis?: Yes. It can strongly show that one reason or purpose is the whole reason.