The word "只不过" is formed through a sequential and intensifying layering of its three constituent characters: 只 (zhǐ), which initially sets a limit or scope meaning "only"; 不 (bù), which then introduces a negation or downplaying effect; and 过 (guò), which completes the concept by adding the notion of passing beyond or exceeding a boundary, often a mental or evaluative one. Together, they create a unified expression where the sense of limitation from 只 is reinforced by the negation in 不, and then qualitatively bounded by 过, ultimately forming a holistic term meaning "merely" or "nothing more than", which softens or minimizes what is being discussed by conceptually framing it within strict confines.