What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forlorn
Example
The forlorn child sat alone on the bench, waiting for someone to pick him up. [forlorn: adjective]
Example
The old house had a forlorn look, with broken windows and overgrown weeds. [forlorn: adjective]
lonely
Example
She felt lonely after moving to a new city where she didn't know anyone. [lonely: adjective]
Example
The park was empty and lonely, with no one around to enjoy the beautiful scenery. [lonely: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lonely is more commonly used than forlorn in everyday language. Lonely is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while forlorn is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forlorn and lonely?
Forlorn is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while lonely is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
