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

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

But the fare charge debut in L.A. marks another major milestone for an industry once only imagined in science fiction.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2024

It treated her children when they were seriously ill and allowed her family a quality of care it could once only have dreamed of in the coal mining valleys of Wales.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 5, 2023

What is now proved was once only imagin’d.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

once only

Example Sentences

Related Words