How do I know which translation of 'just' to use?

Replace 'just' with a synonym in English to find the right Spanish word: if you can say 'only,' use solo; if you can say 'exactly' or 'precisely,' use justo; if you can say 'barely' or 'a moment ago,' use apenas. This substitution test works reliably across nearly all contexts.

Is 'nomás' proper Spanish?

Nomás is a widely used contraction of nada más (nothing more) that functions as a synonym for solo in informal speech across Mexico and much of Latin America. While it does not appear in formal writing, it is perfectly natural in conversation and carries no negative connotation among native speakers who use it.

Can 'justo' mean 'fair' as well?

Justo functions as both an adverb meaning 'exactly' and an adjective meaning 'fair' or 'just.' As an adjective, it describes equitable treatment or a deserved outcome: un castigo justo (a fair punishment), un precio justo (a fair price). Context always clarifies which meaning applies.

Spanish vocabulary · Beginner

Just in Spanish: Solo, Justo, Apenas

Written by Sofia Ramirez, Lead Spanish Curriculum Editor · Reviewed May 2026

Solo / Justo / Apenas · adverb · SOH-loh / HOOS-toh / ah-PEH-nahs

The English word 'just' has at least three distinct meanings, each requiring a different Spanish translation. Solo (or solamente) covers 'just' meaning 'only'; justo handles 'just' meaning 'fair' or 'exactly'; and apenas translates 'just' in the sense of 'barely' or 'a moment ago.' Recognizing which meaning of 'just' you intend is the key to choosing the correct Spanish equivalent.

Solo is SOH-loh with stress on the first syllable. Justo is HOOS-toh with a guttural j. Apenas is ah-PEH-nahs with stress on the second syllable.

Solo quiero un café, nada más.

I just want a coffee, nothing else.

Just in Spanish: Quick Reference

Below are the most common Spanish words for just, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.

Spanish	English	Pronunciation	Region / Register
solo / justo / apenas	just	SOH-loh / HOOS-toh / ah-PEH-nahs	Default, widely understood
nada más	just		Mexico and Central America, meaning 'just/only'
nomás	just		informal Latin American contraction of nada más

How Native Speakers Use Solo / Justo / Apenas

Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.

'Just' meaning 'only'

Solo necesito cinco minutos de tu tiempo.

I just need five minutes of your time.

Solo/solamente expresses limitation or 'nothing more than.'

'Just' meaning 'exactly'

Llegaste justo a tiempo para la cena.

You arrived just in time for dinner.

Justo conveys precision or perfect timing.

'Just' meaning 'barely'

Apenas alcancé el autobús; las puertas se cerraban cuando subí.

I just barely caught the bus; the doors were closing when I got on.

Apenas emphasizes narrowly making it.

Avoid These Mistakes When Using Solo / Justo / Apenas

Using justo for 'only'

Incorrect: Justo quiero agua.

Correct: Solo quiero agua.

Justo means 'exactly' or 'fair,' not 'only'; when 'just' means 'merely' or 'only,' the correct translation is solo or solamente.

Using solo for 'barely'

Incorrect: Solo llegué a tiempo.

Correct: Apenas llegué a tiempo.

Solo implies 'only' or 'nothing more than,' while the meaning of barely managing something requires apenas to capture the narrow margin.

Lock in Just Vocabulary with the Parrot Method

Why word lists alone don't stick

Memorizing a translation feels productive, but most learners forget 70% of what they studied within 48 hours. Vocabulary needs spaced repetition AND real-world exposure to transfer to long-term memory.

See Solo / Justo / Apenas used by native speakers

Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using solo / justo / apenas in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Solo quiero un café, nada más. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.

Save, review, repeat, stay consistent

Tap any word to save it. Parrot's spaced-repetition system surfaces it right before you'd forget, no manual flashcard creation. The watch, parrot back, save, review cycle turns recognition into fluency at 2.7x the speed of traditional study.

Common Questions About Just in Spanish

How do I know which translation of 'just' to use?: Replace 'just' with a synonym in English to find the right Spanish word: if you can say 'only,' use solo; if you can say 'exactly' or 'precisely,' use justo; if you can say 'barely' or 'a moment ago,' use apenas. This substitution test works reliably across nearly all contexts.
Is 'nomás' proper Spanish?: Nomás is a widely used contraction of nada más (nothing more) that functions as a synonym for solo in informal speech across Mexico and much of Latin America. While it does not appear in formal writing, it is perfectly natural in conversation and carries no negative connotation among native speakers who use it.
Can 'justo' mean 'fair' as well?: Justo functions as both an adverb meaning 'exactly' and an adjective meaning 'fair' or 'just.' As an adjective, it describes equitable treatment or a deserved outcome: un castigo justo (a fair punishment), un precio justo (a fair price). Context always clarifies which meaning applies.