只不过

• 拼音: zhǐ bù guò
• 汉字拆解: 只 = only; 不过 = not exceeding, merely

含义

Merely; only; just. Used to downplay significance or indicate something is less serious than perceived.

A discourse marker that minimizes importance. Common patterns: 只不过是 (it's merely), 只不过想 (just wanted to). Often used to soften statements or clarify that something is simple/minor.

例句

1. 别担心，只不过是一场小感冒而已。
2. 我只不过开个玩笑，你别当真。
3. 这只不过是开始，后面还有更难的。

用法指南

语境: everyday, clarification, reassurance

语气: casual

正确说法

• 只不过是误会而已。(It's just a misunderstanding.)
• 我只不过想帮忙。(I just wanted to help.)

错误说法

• 只不过很重要 (Contradictory — 只不过 minimizes, so don't combine with importance)

起源与历史

Compound of 只 (only) + 不过 (merely). A reinforced form meaning 'merely/just.'

文化背景

世代: All ages

社会背景: Universal