just

1. 1
   simplyadverb

   Only, or simply, as in 'it's just a cold'.

   Think of it like a hand waving away any fuss.

   It's just a scratch.

   Don't worry, it's just a cold.

   UsagePut it before the word: just a little, just friends.

   Similaronly, merely, simply, purely

2. 2
   adverb

   Very close to a certain time or place, only a short time or distance before, after, or away from it.

   We got home just before midnight.

   The bakery is just around the corner from my school.

   UsageSay just after six or just outside town when it is very close.

   Similarright

3. 3
   exactlyadverb

   Exactly, as in 'just right' or 'just what I wanted'.

   Everything must be just right for the wedding.

   That is just what I needed.

   Similarexactly, precisely, perfectly

   Note
4. 4
   moments agoadverb

   A very short time ago, as in 'they just left'.

   They just left, so you missed them.

   I have just finished my coffee.

   UsagePut it before the main verb: I have just eaten.

   Similarrecently

   Note
5. 5
   absolutelyadverb

   Used for emphasis, meaning 'completely', as in 'just perfect'.

   The weather was just splendid.

   Everything is just fine.

   UsageSay just wonderful for really wonderful. Just fine can mean only okay.

   Similarabsolutely, simply, truly, really, positively

   Note
6. 6
   adverb

   Used before telling someone to do something, to make it sound easy or to push them.

   Just press the green button, and the machine does the rest.

   Just leave it on the table, thanks.

   Note
7. 7
   barelyadverb

   By a very small amount, as in 'just in time'.

   The ball just missed my head.

   We got there just in time.

   UsageOften used in only just, as in we only just made it.

   Similarbarely, narrowly, scarcely

   Note
8. 8
   adverb

   Used to make what you say sound casual and small.

   Can I just borrow your pen for a second?

   I'm just popping out for milk.

   UsageMakes a request sound small: I just wanted to ask.

   Similaronly, simply, merely

9. 9
   adverb

   Used with "might", "may", or "could" to say that something is possible, maybe more than you think.

   Ask her to the dance. She might just say yes.

   It sounds crazy, but your plan could just work.

   Similarwell, actually

Showing meanings only. Show all 14