by only

[azz]

. He can get anything he wants merely by uttering a sentence.
b. He can get anything he wants by merely uttering a sentence.

c. He can get anything he wants only by uttering a sentence.
d. He can get anything he wants by only uttering a sentence.

Intended meaning:
1. All he has to do to get anything he wants is utter a sentence.

Which of the above are grammatically correct and have the desired meaning?

I think (c) has a different meaning that is almost comical (The only way he can get anything he wants is by uttering a sentence.)

I think the first two work find and have the desired meaning and are synonymous. I think (d) has the intended meaning but is awkward.

Many thanks.

[Alan]

Yes, only (a) is well-formed, but (b) would be acceptable.