只是
Basic Meaning
adv
Commonly used to downplay or limit the scope of what you're saying. It indicates that something is not more significant than what is stated.
just; merely; only
仅仅是；不过是。
Words:
只是如此只是表面只是开始
Synonyms:
仅仅不过
Sentences:
- 这只是一个小小的误会，别担心。This is just a small misunderstanding, don't worry.
- 我只是随便说说，你不用当真。I was merely speaking casually, you don't need to take it seriously.
adv
This usage emphasizes that something is consistently true, regardless of conditions. It's often used in sentences expressing a persistent reason or cause.
always; invariably
强调在任何条件下情况都不变；总是。
Synonyms:
就是
Sentences:
- 无论我怎么问他，他只是摇头不说话。No matter how I asked him, he always shook his head and didn't speak.
- 她不好意思开口，只是静静地坐着。She felt too shy to speak, and just sat there quietly.
conj
Used to introduce a mild contrast or correction to the previous statement. It's softer than '但是'. Often follows a comma in writing.
but; however
用在后一分句，表示轻微的转折，补充修正上文的意思；不过。
Synonyms:
不过然而
Sentences:
- 我很想去爬山，只是今天天气不太好。I really want to go hiking, but today's weather isn't very good.
- 这个地方风景很美，只是有点偏远。This place has beautiful scenery, however it's a bit remote.