“Just” is one of the top 30 words in the English language! Yes, you will hear it all the time in songs, movies, conversations in the streets, etc. Did you know this word could make our sentences sound softer and at the same time it can be used to make our sentences stronger? Crazy! This word has opposite functions.
Using Just
You can use just to make what you say stronger. It can mean “very” or “really”:
- I often have nightmares, just horrible dreams.
- He interrupted me and didn’t let me say a word. He’s just rude!
You can also use just to make what you say softer. It can mean “only”:
- It’s just a little strange.
- It’s just a little odd.
- I just wanted to talk to you for a second.
- She’s not upset, she’s just tired, that’s all.
Just also means “exactly”:
- They just need the downpayment to get that house.
- I just need a strong cup of coffee to get started in the mornings.
- Many people tell me I look just like my father.
How many times have you heard the word just this week? In what contexts? Let me know!
WeSpeak Idiomas 