Common focus adjuncts

Focus Adjunct

Typical Function / Meaning

Example

Only

Restrictive — selects one element

She only invited John.

Even

Emphatic / unexpected element

She invited even John.

Also / Too

Additive / inclusive

John also came to the party.

Just

Restrictive / minimal focus

I just wanted to help.

Merely

Restrictive / minimal / insignificant

He was merely a spectator.

Alone

Exclusive focus

John alone solved the problem.

Above all

Highlights the most important element

He values honesty, above all.

Most of all

Highlights the most important element

She loves cats most of all.

Particularly / Specifically

Focuses on one case or subset

She likes animals, particularly cats.