What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
independently
Example
She completed the project independently, without any assistance. [independently: adverb]
Example
He is an independent worker who doesn't need constant supervision. [independent: adjective]
separately
Example
The books are arranged separately by genre. [separately: adverb]
Example
We will be interviewing each candidate separately. [separately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Separately is more commonly used than independently in everyday language. Separately is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while independently is less common and often used in specific contexts such as work or education.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between independently and separately?
Both independently and separately can be used in formal and informal contexts, but independently may be more commonly used in professional or academic settings to describe a person's ability to work without assistance.
