What it means
のみ means “only” or “nothing but.” It restricts the preceding noun or plain-form verb and emphasizes that the stated item or action is the sole relevant one. It is more formal and written than だけ, so it is common in notices, rules, reports, and formal explanations. The surrounding sentence can still be made either familiar or polite.
Usage note
のみ is often interchangeable with だけ in meaning, but it sounds more formal and categorical. It normally follows a noun or a plain-form verb; adjective meanings are usually expressed with a noun phrase such as 必要なもののみ rather than by attaching のみ directly to the adjective.
How to use it
参加者は三名のみです。
There are only three participants.
担当者は書類を確認するのみです。
The person in charge only checks the documents.
参加者は三名のみだ。
There are only three participants.
担当者は書類を確認するのみだ。
The person in charge only checks the documents.
Example sentences
入館できるのは、予約した方のみです。
Only those who have made a reservation may enter.
この申請書は、黒いペンで記入したもののみ受け付けます。
This application form will accept only those completed with a black pen.
災害時には、指定された避難所のみ利用できます。
During a disaster, only designated evacuation shelters can be used.
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