shades of meaning

[hela]

Dear teachers,

Would you please tell me what is the difference in meaning between the following sentences?

1) He has ONLY been here for a week.
2) He has been here ONLY for a week.
3) He has been here for ONLY a week.
4) He has been here for a week ONLY.

Many thanks,
Hela

[blacknomi]

1- "only" modifies "has been". It emphasizes more on the status of the action.
2- "only" modifies "for a week" where the duration is stressed.
3- "only" modifies "a week". It tells us the exact days he has been there.
4- "only" modifies "a week" or "for a week". Time advervial receives more emphasis.