Nu.......decât........... RESTRITIVE NEGATION you might think that since the following expressions begin with NU that it is a negative statement. well it's not. in fact this is something that i have just decided to memorize as a rule even if it doesn't make sense through a direct translation in english. because sometimes it is just what it is....


Nu mănânc decât salata.

this means i only eat salad. it can also be expressed in the following way....

Mănânc numai salată.

this too means i only eat salad.

IMPORTANT NOTE - Different ways to express the word "ONLY"

ONLY is also expressed with the NUMAI and DOAR

subtle differences with NUMAI and DOAR

NUMAI relates more to a quantity of something.

Cumpar numai trei mere. - I only bought 3 apples.

While DOAR is more likely used in an expression of a more abstract nature.

Doar am plecut la opera deoarece prieteni mei, mi-a dat un bilet. - I only went to the opera since my friend gave me a ticket.  ¶ 3:17 p.m.