The spelling of the phrase "only too" may seem a bit confusing, but it follows the typical pattern of English spelling. The word "only" is pronounced as /ˈoʊnli/, with stress on the first syllable. The word "too" is pronounced as /tuː/, with the long vowel sound in the second syllable. When combined, the stress shifts to the second syllable, making it /ˌoʊnli ˈtuː/. This phrase is commonly used to express agreement or enthusiasm, as in "I am only too happy to help."
Only too is an adverbial phrase that is used to convey a high degree or intensity of a particular quality or situation. It generally implies that something is eagerly, enthusiastically, or excessively happening or being done. "Only too" is often used in a negative context to indicate that a person is not just moderately inclined towards something, but rather excessively so.
The phrase can be understood as an intensifier that emphasizes the intensity or extent of a condition or action. It expresses the idea that there is an overwhelming desire or propensity towards a specific outcome or behavior. For example, if someone says "I am only too happy to help," they are expressing their extreme willingness and eagerness to assist.
"Only too" can also be used to convey a sense of regret or frustration, indicating that a particular quality or situation is more pronounced or prevalent than desired. For instance, if someone says "I am only too aware of my mistakes," they are acknowledging that they are painfully conscious of their errors.
Overall, "only too" serves to express the intense degree to which someone feels or acts, whether it be positive or negative, and emphasizes the extremity of a situation or state of mind.
The phrase "only too" does not have a specific etymology of its own because it is a combination of two separate words, "only" and "too", each with their own origins.
1) "Only":
- "Only" originated from the Old English word "ǣnlīċe", meaning "solely" or "exclusively".
- The word evolved through Middle English as "oonli" before eventually becoming "only" in modern English.
2) "Too":
- "Too" also has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "tō", which meant "in addition" or "also".
- This word remained relatively unchanged and was passed down through Middle English into Modern English as "too".