solitary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
solitary Word Meanings
- being alone
- not in the company of others
- living or being set apart
solitary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
solitary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsɒl.ɪ.təri/
US
/ˈsɑː.lɪ.ter.i/
solitary Word Etymology
solitary = solit- (alone) + -ary (pertaining to); Latin 'solitarius' → Old French → English. Imagine a single tree standing alone in a vast field, representing solitude.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Solitary is an adjective describing being alone or not in the company of others, and it can also refer to things set apart or living apart from a group. In everyday English, solitary carries nuance beyond simply being by yourself and can imply intentional isolation, quietness, or a condition that stands apart from others, such as a solitary tree in a field or a solitary life at the edge of town. The term is more formal than casual alternatives like alone, and it contrasts with lonely when you want to emphasize the state as a characteristic rather than a feeling. Learners should note its typical collocations and the contexts where solitary is preferred in writing.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: solitary emphasizes the state of being alone as a characteristic, not a feeling. It often pairs with nouns like life, tree, confinement, or existence. Use formal contexts or written style. Not interchangeable with lonely in most cases. Check collocations like solitary life, solitary tree, solitary confinement. Avoid overusing in casual speech.
Common Misconceptions
- Solitary always means lonely or sad.
- It only describes people, not things.
- Solitary is interchangeable with solo.
- It cannot describe non-human objects.
- Solitary is informal and casual.
Thinking Differences
Solitary describes a state or quality rather than a feeling; learners should think of it as labeling something as being apart or independent.
Learning Tips
- Practice with collocations: solitary life, solitary tree, solitary confinement.
- Contrast solitary with lonely to feel the nuance.
- Use in formal writing, not casual speech unless context demands.
- Watch for noun phrases that can be singular or plural.
- Think of solitary as describing a state, not a mood.
- Check if the subject is truly alone or simply set apart.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'solitary'?
A.Social
B.Alone
C.Busy
D.Loud
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'solitary' used correctly?
A.She enjoyed spending time with her friends, so she was solitary.
B.The party was so much fun because it was solitary.
C.I always go to the mall with a solitary purpose in mind.
D.He preferred the solitary of the outdoors to crowded city life.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'solitary'?
A.Crowded
B.Isolated
C.Quiet
D.Peaceful
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life situation would someone be described as 'solitary'?
A.Attending a large music festival with friends
B.Studying alone in a quiet library
C.Playing team sports with classmates
D.Going to a crowded theme park with family
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a time when you felt 'solitary' and share your thoughts.
A.Not applicable
B.Not applicable
C.Not applicable
D.Not applicable
Related Listening
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