unicamente

Unicamente is a Spanish adverb meaning “only” or “solely.” It serves to restrict the scope of a statement, emphasizing exclusivity. It is formed from the adjective único (“one,” “single”) plus the adverbial suffix -mente, yielding únicamente.

Etymology and form: The word derives from único with the -mente suffix. It shares roots with other Romance languages’ equivalents of “only.” In standard Spanish, the favored form is únicamente, written with a stress on the first syllable.

Spelling and usage: The Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) prescribes únicamente as the correct spelling in formal writing. The unaccented unicamente is widely regarded as nonstandard in formal contexts and is discouraged by prescriptive guidance, though it may appear in informal texts or older material. Some writers use unicamente to simplify typography or under time constraints, but it risks being marked as a spelling error in careful editing.

Usage notes: Únicamente can often be substituted with solamente or tan solo without changing the core meaning, though there can be nuances of emphasis or register. In many sentences, the choice among these synonyms affects tone more than meaning.

Examples:

- Únicamente los miembros autorizados pueden participar.

- Este informe es únicamente para uso interno.

See also: solamente, solo.