Mere - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Mere means nothing more than or only, emphasizing how small or unimportant something is. For example, a mere five minutes suggests a very short time. It often downplays significance.
Definition:
Used to emphasize how small or insignificant something is.
Synonyms:
simple, bare, pure, sheer, basic
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
significant, substantial
Common Collocations:
mere thought, mere fact, mere presence, mere chance, mere coincidence
Derivatives:
merely, mereness
Usage Tips:
Use "mere" before a noun to stress its smallness or lack of importance (e.g., "a mere child").
Common Phrases:
mere formality, mere shadow of oneself, mere trifle
Etymology:
From Latin "merus," meaning pure or unmixed; entered English via Old French "mier."
Examples:
- 1. The cost was a mere five dollars.
- 2. She was a mere beginner when she started painting.
- 3. His apology seemed a mere formality.
- 4. The idea was dismissed as a mere fantasy.