merely
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merely
Expresses a limitation and means something like 'only' or 'just'. It emphasizes that a statement refers to nothing other than what is mentioned and is often used in more formal contexts.
Ich wollte lediglich fragen, ob du Hilfe brauchst.
I merely wanted to ask whether you need help.
'Lediglich' (merely) belongs to written language or a more formal style. It is often used in official notices, reports, or polite formulations.
Der Eintritt ist frei, wir bitten lediglich um eine Spende.
Admission is free; we merely ask for a donation.
If 'lediglich' is in position 1 in the sentence, the conjugated verb follows directly after it. If it appears inside the sentence, the normal word order does not change.
Lediglich der Fahrer wurde bei dem Unfall leicht verletzt.
Only the driver was slightly injured in the accident.
'Lediglich' is related to the adjective 'ledig' (unmarried). Both words contain the idea of 'being alone' or 'isolation': 'lediglich' isolates one aspect from all others.
Es handelt sich hierbei lediglich um einen Vorschlag.
This is merely a proposal.
only
'nur' and 'lediglich' both mean that something is limited to what is mentioned. The most important difference is style. 'nur' is neutral and fits almost any everyday situation. 'lediglich' sounds somewhat more formal or matter-of-fact, for example in emails, reports, or explanations. In terms of content, the difference is often small, but 'lediglich' feels less spontaneous. When you are speaking normally, 'nur' is usually more natural; when a sentence should sound factual, 'lediglich' fits well.
Vor dem Ausflug braucht die Klasse lediglich eine schriftliche Erlaubnis der Eltern.
Before the trip, the class merely needs written permission from the parents.
Am Wochenende habe ich nur mit der Kollegin das neue Programm getestet.
At the weekend, I only tested the new program with my colleague.