只有 (zhǐyǒu) — only if / only when

只有 (zhǐyǒu)

只有 means only or only if/when. It sets a single necessary condition. It almost always pairs with 才 in the second clause to mean "only when [condition], then [result]." Without 才, it can mean "there is only" one option or thing.

Meanings

1. [conjunction] Only if; only when (used in 只有...才... pattern to express a necessary condition).
2. [adverb phrase] There is only; the only one.

Example Sentences

只有努力学习，才能取得好成绩。 Zhǐyǒu nǔlì xuéxí, cái néng qǔdé hǎo chéngjì. Only by studying hard can you achieve good results.

只有你才能帮我。 Zhǐyǒu nǐ cái néng bāng wǒ. You are the only one who can help me.

只有一个问题需要解决。 Zhǐyǒu yī gè wèntí xūyào jiějué. There is only one problem that needs to be solved.

只有他来了，会议才能开始。 Zhǐyǒu tā lái le, huìyì cái néng kāishǐ. Only when he arrives can the meeting begin.

Collocations

Memory Hook

只 means only/just and 有 means have/exist. "Only have" one path forward. Pair it with 才 and you lock in a condition: the door opens only when you have the right key.