The difference between Barely and Only just
When used as adverbs, barely means by a small margin, whereas only just means recently.
check bellow for the other definitions of Barely and Only just
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Barely as an adverb (degree):
By a small margin.
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Barely as an adverb (degree):
Almost not at all.
Examples:
"The plane is so far away now I can barely see it."
"Yes, it is barely visible."
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Barely as an adverb (archaic):
merely.
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Only just as an adverb:
recently; just now
Examples:
"I've only just cleaned the floor, and you've made muddy tracks!"
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Only just as an adverb:
barely; by only a small margin
Examples:
"I got 51%, so I only just passed the exam."