A few days ago
TomO

Just or Only?

Which of the following is appropriate or more natural?

He can’t wait for just 10 seconds.

He can’t wait for only 10 seconds.

The context being, he is too impatient to wait for 10 seconds.

Is there a difference in the usage of ‘just’ and ‘only’?

Thanks!!

Top 3 Answers
A few days ago
miss_j

Favorite Answer

First one. When used in this context, “just” gives the impression that 10 minutes is not a lot of time. ie, “I’ll be ready in just a minute!” “Just” is better used for statements regarding time.

“Only” implies that the amount is not adequate. As in, “I ONLY got 30% on my english midterm”, or, “we only have two apples left”.

Does this really make sense? I could help you out further if you need it…

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A few days ago
timetraveler7000
i think the 1st one is better to say, but the second is the real way of phrasing that sentence
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A few days ago
kcracer1
ever try looking them up in a dictionary?
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