only or just

English grammar and usage issues

Moderator: Joe

Rina
Member
Posts: 16
Joined: 02 Jun 2008, 07:03

only or just

Unread post by Rina »

Hi
can anyone tell me the differenz between only and just? For example I say:
He's only 20 years old.
Can I also say:
He's just t 20 years old?
I not why?
Thanky for your help in advance
DavidB
Member
Posts: 22
Joined: 16 Dec 2009, 03:25
Status: Teacher Trainer

Re: only or just

Unread post by DavidB »

In your examples they are the same thing. Often only and just are the same thing.

However, the difference is that just is informal and should only be used in conversation. I teach my students to never write just.

Example:

The new television is just for DVDs and not VHS.

This is OK in conversation, but unacceptable in formal writing.

In conversation just is very popular, and often much better than only. For example, it would sound strange if Lady Gaga said "Only Dance."

Hope that helps

Dave
Rina
Member
Posts: 16
Joined: 02 Jun 2008, 07:03

Re: only or just

Unread post by Rina »

Yes it helped, indeed!
Thank you Dave
DavidB
Member
Posts: 22
Joined: 16 Dec 2009, 03:25
Status: Teacher Trainer

Re: only or just

Unread post by DavidB »

No problem, I hope you have a better idea of how they work now.

Dave
Post Reply