only too

Idioms

At the very least, as a matter of fact, as in I know only too well that I can't win the lottery . This usage was first recorded in 1817.
Very, extremely, as in I am only too glad to help . This usage was first recorded in 1899.

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.

They know only too well the pressure they can place on youngsters who have so much growing up and so much development ahead of them.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

Intimately acquainted with Richard’s malignity, these ruined royals know only too well the toll of his depraved machinations.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

Suryakumar is only too aware that India, the top-ranked T20 team in the world, are overwhelming favourites to retain their title .

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

I was only too delighted to have the singles back in my life again.

From Salon • Dec. 23, 2025

Sorcerers existed, beyond a doubt, and it was only too likely that they would cast sleeping spells, and that a mother would care for her daughter in that fierce and tender way.

From "The Amber Spyglass" by Philip Pullman

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023