N576/133

だけ

Noun + だけVerb (dictionary form) + だけい-adjective + だけ

Meanings

  • Only
  • Just
  • Nothing but

About this pattern

Explanation

The particle だけ means “only” or “just.” It marks that the first element is restricted to a single item, amount, or quality, implying that nothing more is involved beyond what is stated. It can attach to nouns, verbs in dictionary form, and i-adjectives to express exclusivity or limit. It is commonly used in everyday statements to emphasize limitation or exclusivity and is often translated as “only” or “just.” When used with verbs, it often implies that no other actions are done beyond the stated verb. When with a noun, it highlights that other things are not included.

Learn in context

Example sentences

これはりんごだけです。

This is only an apple.

彼は日本語だけ話します。

He only speaks Japanese.

彼女は私にだけ秘密を話した。

She told only me a secret.

今日は宿題だけ終わりました。

Today I only finished the homework.