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Dictionary.com

once only

ADVERB
once
Synonyms
STRONGEST
already before earlier formerly late previously
STRONG
erstwhile
WEAK
a single time at one time away back back back when but once bygone heretofore in the old days in the olden days in times gone by in times past long ago old on one occasion once upon a time one one time before one time previously only one time quondam sometime this time time was whilom
Antonyms
STRONGEST
currently future later presently

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Air travel was once only about dressing up.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 14, 2026

How can a player who bats once only two or three innings bring opponents to their knees?

From Los Angeles Times • May 31, 2025

In the 1980s, it became the first country to deregulate its gambling industry, making it possible for slot machines - once only permitted inside casinos - to expand into licensed pubs and clubs.

From BBC • Aug. 26, 2024

Our science and technological achievements have made what was once only science fiction a reality.

From Salon • Dec. 14, 2023

Khrazz cursed and turned a high cut into a low one, slipping past the old knight’s blade for once, only to have his blow scrape uselessly off a white steel greave.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin