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just
/dʒʌst/
exactly or merely
It's just a small problem.
The problem is minor, not large.
neutral
exactly; precisely
This is just what I needed.
This is exactly what I needed.
Used to emphasize exactness or similarity.
neutral
no more than; only
I just want a cup of tea.
I only want a cup of tea.
Indicates a small or limited amount.
neutral
recently; a short time ago
She just left the office.
She left the office a few minutes ago.
Often used with past simple tense.
neutral
simply; merely
It's just a suggestion.
It's only a suggestion.
Used to downplay importance or seriousness.
polite
used to make a request more polite
Could you just help me for a moment?
A polite way to ask for help.
Softens the tone of a request.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Position matters
'Just' usually comes before the main verb but after the auxiliary verb (e.g., 'I have just finished').
Gold Rule
Avoid overusing 'just'
'Just' is often redundant in sentences like 'I just think that...' where it adds no meaning. Use it only to emphasize exactness or recentness.
Word Origin
From Old French 'juste' (just, fair), from Latin 'iustus' (lawful, rightful), from 'ius' (right, law).
Usage Notes
The word 'just' can function as an adverb, adjective, or conjunction depending on context. As an adverb, it often modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. In informal speech, 'just' can soften requests or statements.
Word Breakdown
just
exactly, precisely
rootEnglish Dictionary