Merely stated in four words it doesn't sound like much.
A minute was more time than needed to merely state a meeting place; she'd demanded one.
She was merely stating a fact, too certain to need emphasis.
I merely stated the reality you are trying to spare me.
"You do not attack a being for merely stating the obvious," said Data.
I merely stated that 'to my knowledge' there was no convincing evidence either way.
I merely stated the facts and this is a public forum.
"I am making no suggestions, but merely stating a fact."
The journalists maintained that they merely stated what was already being said in the international media.
I have merely stated facts which any man of your apparent perception would learn after a short while.