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nothing more than — only; just; merely; no more and no less than

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: only; just; merely; no more and no less than

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈnʌθɪŋ mɔːr ðæn/

Example Sentences

  • His apology was nothing more than a PR stunt to save his reputation.
  • My cooking skills are nothing more than reheating instant noodles and ordering pizza.
  • That expensive gadget is nothing more than a fancy paperweight if you don't know how to use it.

nothing more than

NOUN

[/ˈnʌθɪŋ mɔːr ðæn/]

only; just; merely; no more and no less than

His fancy title was nothing more than a way to sound important at parties.
💡 Concept

His fancy title was nothing more than a way to sound important at parties.

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈnʌθɪŋ mɔːr ðæn/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈnʌθɪŋ mɔː ðæn/

🌳Etymology

Origin

This phrase combines 'nothing' (from Old English 'nan thing,' meaning not any thing) with 'more' (from Old English 'māra,' comparative of much) and 'than' (from Old English 'thonne,' used for comparison). It developed as a comparative construction to indicate a restriction or limitation.

Breakdown

nothing (not + any thing) + more (greater amount) + than (comparative marker) = only; merely; no more and no less than

🎵Rhyme

something
everything
anything

🔗Collocations

nothing more than a joke
nothing more than speculation
nothing more than coincidence
nothing more than empty promises
nothing more than wishful thinking
nothing more than an excuse

📝Examples

“His apology was nothing more than a PR stunt to save his reputation.”

😄 Fun example

“My cooking skills are nothing more than reheating instant noodles and ordering pizza.”

😄 Fun example

“That expensive gadget is nothing more than a fancy paperweight if you don't know how to use it.”

“The rumor turned out to be nothing more than malicious gossip.”

📚Related Words

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