Slechts

Slechts is a Dutch adverb meaning "only" or "merely." It is used to limit the scope of a statement and to convey a sense of restraint, emphasis on a small amount, or downplaying significance.

Usage and placement

Slechts typically precedes the element it limits, such as a numeral, a noun phrase, or an adjective. Examples include: "slechts tien euro" (only ten euros), "slechts één persoon" (only one person), and "slechts tijdelijk" (only temporarily). It can also modify a clause, as in "Het was slechts een vergissing" (It was merely a mistake). In informal speech, alternatives like alleen or maar can convey a similar meaning, but slechs carries a distinct nuance of modesty or emphasis on limitation.

Nuance and register

The word tends to have a somewhat formal or literary tone, and it often highlights that the described quantity or quality is smaller or more limited than might be assumed. It is not a direct negation; rather, it contrasts with expectations by stressing scarcity or insignificance. In negative statements, slechs can soften a claim rather than negate it outright.

Relation to other words

Slechts is closely related to woorden like alleen and enkel, but adds a stronger sense of restriction or measured emphasis. It is often contrasted with meer or aanzienlijk when the speaker wants to downplay rather than escalate.

Examples

- Ik heb slechts tien euro. (I have only ten euros.)

- Het is slechts een foutje. (It is merely a small mistake.)

- Slechts weinig mensen wisten het. (Very few people knew it.)

See also

Alleen, enkel, maar.