仅 vs 仅仅

仅 and 仅仅 both mean "only" or "merely", but they differ in formality, emphasis, and usage.

1. 仅 (jǐn) – "Only" (Neutral, Common in Writing & Speech)

Meaning & Usage:

• "Only," "just," "merely" (neutral tone, no strong emphasis).
• Used in both spoken and written Chinese.
• Often appears in formal or semi-formal contexts (e.g., reports, news, announcements).
• Can be followed by numbers, quantities, or descriptions.
• Less emphatic than 仅仅.

Examples:

1. With Numbers/Quantities:
   • 这个项目仅花费了100元。 (This project cost only 100 yuan.)
   • 他仅用了三天就完成了任务。 (He finished the task in just three days.)
2. General Limitation:
   • 我仅知道他的名字。 (I only know his name.)

2. 仅仅 (jǐnjǐn) – "Only" (Emphatic, More Formal/Literary)

Meaning & Usage:

• "Only," "merely," "just" (stronger emphasis than 仅).
• More common in written Chinese, formal speeches, or literary contexts.
• Often used to highlight how small/limited something is.
• Sometimes carries a slightly negative or regretful tone (e.g., "it’s just this much, not more").
• Can be interchangeable with 仅, but sounds more formal.

Examples:

1. Emphasizing Small Quantity:
   • 他仅仅说了两句话就走了。 (He said just two words and left.)
   • 我们仅仅见过一次面。 (We’ve only met once.)
2. Negative/Regretful Tone:
   • 这个计划仅仅是个开始，还有很多问题。 (This plan is merely a start; there are still many issues.)

Key Differences Summary

When to Use Which?

1. Use 仅 for neutral, everyday speech or writing (e.g., reports, conversations).
2. Use 仅仅 for formal writing, speeches, or when emphasizing how small/limited something is.