The meaning of "just"

[nyugaton]

Just let me know if...

What does "just" exactly mean?

1)Is it to show a touch of humbleness to asking for something?
2)Or is it to catch a listener's attention?
3)Or is it emphasize "let me know"?

[Humble]

Hi, nyugaton,
You've given too little context. Just is such a common word and can imply so many things...
Let's imagine a situation. You are going abroad and you are worried abt your visa. Your uncle who is a big shot at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says to you,- Just let me know if any problem arises.
It would imply you needn't take any steps yourself, you should only inform him and he'll see to it.

Originally Posted by nyugaton

What does "just" exactly mean?
1)Is it to show a touch of humbleness to asking for something?
2)Or is it to catch a listener's attention?
3)Or is it emphasize "let me know"?

English Dictionary :
adv.
Precisely; exactly: just enough salt.
Only a moment ago: He just arrived.
By a narrow margin; barely: just missed being hit; just caught the bus before it pulled away.
At a little distance: just down the road.
Merely; only: just a scratch.
Simply; certainly: It's just beautiful!
Perhaps; possibly: I just may go.

You can look it up in an English dictionary for further information.

All the best

[nyugaton]

Just let me express my gratitude

[Tdol]

It could mean different things, especially in spoken language where the emphasis could change. It could be used to reassure the person about letting them know, but if said firmly, it could be used to strengthen an order.

[Delmobile]

It can also be used so frequently it almost amounts to a verbal tic. A friend of mine used to talk about what he called the Just Prayer: "Heavenly Father, we just want to thank you...We are just so grateful that you are here with us at our gathering today, and we want to ask you just to bless us..."

This may only have meaning to those living in the U.S., or perhaps only its southeast portion :)

[nyugaton]

Originally Posted by Tdol

It could mean different things, especially in spoken language where the emphasis could change. It could be used to reassure the person about letting them know, but if said firmly, it could be used to strengthen an order.

Oh, I see, I understand it could be used with almost opposite nuances. Thanks!

Originally Posted by Delmobile

It can also be used so frequently it almost amounts to a verbal tic. A friend of mine used to talk about what he called the Just Prayer: "Heavenly Father, we just want to thank you...We are just so grateful that you are here with us at our gathering today, and we want to ask you just to bless us..."

This may only have meaning to those living in the U.S., or perhaps only its southeast portion :)

Thanks! That Just Prayer is interesting Are there any native speakers who don't mind explaing what each "just" mean in the prayer?