Modifier "only"

[f2001290]

what is the difference in meaning between the below0mentioned sentences?

1. only surpassed by heart-attack and cancer.
2. surpassed only by heart-attack and cancer.

What difference does "only" make to the meaning of the sentence?

This question is from OG -11 (SC) Question - 3
Original sentence:

Diabetes, together with its serious complications, ranks as the nation's third leading cause of death, surpassed only by heart disease and cancer.

[discreet]

Yes,this is an important concept...sometimes the usage of only becomes very ambigous.....These concepts are tested in GMAT and if we have to narrow it down to the usage of "only" then we are stuck....any help on this wd be greatly appreciated....I know that sometimes the meaning changes but not always....I think the context in which only is used is imprtnt.....The thing that the author wants to stress on etc etc

[givemeanid]

I think the placement of only is the key here. Can you copy/paste the entire statement?

Judging from the snippet, only seems to limit surpassed when placed before surpassed. However, when placed after surpassed, only seems to limit heart attack and cancer. You have to get the general idea behind the entire sentence to figure out the placement of only.

[amitamit2020]

Request the expert of the forum to help clarify the concept of placement of "Only" pl?