English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "i only did" Mean?
Learn what "i only did" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Neutral
Firm
Explain
I only did what I thought I had to do.
It means the speaker is giving a justification and saying they acted out of necessity.
From Under Her Control, Episode 35
When do people say this?
Scene Context
The speaker is trying to justify a questionable action by saying they believed it was necessary.
Usage Scenario
Use this when explaining your actions after criticism. It can sound defensive or evasive if the listener thinks it is an excuse.
Better ways to say it
1
I only did what I thought I had to do.
2
I did what I thought I had to do.
3
I was just doing what I had to do.
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