alone
/əˈloʊn/Being the only person present or involved in an activity
He felt alone in the crowded room.
Despite being surrounded by people, he felt isolated and without companionship.
The child was left alone at home.
The child was the only one in the house without any adults present.
Can imply physical solitude or emotional isolation.
Without any other similar or comparable thing
This is the only book alone on the shelf.
This book is the only one present on the shelf without any others.
Used to emphasize uniqueness or singularity.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Emotional vs. Physical
'Alone' can describe both physical solitude and emotional isolation. Context helps clarify the intended meaning.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Misuse
Do not use 'alone' to mean 'only' in all contexts. 'Alone' emphasizes solitude or uniqueness, while 'only' emphasizes exclusivity.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'allone,' from Old English 'an' (one) + 'lone' (alone). Related to Old Norse 'einlæginn' (single).
📝Usage Notes
Often used to describe physical or emotional solitude. Can also emphasize uniqueness or singularity in certain contexts.