solitary

Definitions

From Latin sōlitārius, from sōlus (alone). Solitary describes someone or something that stands alone: a solitary walker, a solitary tree on a hill. With 'a single' force it means 'one and only' — not a solitary word was spoken. In prisons, 'solitary' is short for solitary confinement.

Why It Means This

Solitary carries two shades of 'alone.' One is simply being by oneself, often peacefully: a solitary stroll. The other emphasizes singleness, that there is nothing else: 'not a solitary clue.' Note the difference from lonely — solitary is a neutral fact (you are alone), while lonely is the unhappy feeling of it.

Common Collocations

• 1.solitary confinement单独监禁
• 2.solitary life独居生活
• 3.solitary figure孤独的身影
• 4.solitary walk独自散步
• 5.not a solitary连一个……都没有

Example Sentences

• 1.

  He led a solitary life in a cabin by the lake.

• 2.

  A solitary figure stood at the end of the pier.

• 3.

  Not a solitary word of complaint was heard.

• 4.

  The prisoner spent two weeks in solitary.

Easily Confused

solitary vs lonely — solitary states a fact: alone, by oneself, often by choice (a solitary writer). lonely adds sadness: unhappy because alone. A monk can be solitary without being lonely; a person in a crowd can feel lonely without being solitary.