What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lorn
Example
The lorn puppy whined in the corner, missing its mother. [lorn: adjective]
Example
She felt lorn and forgotten after her friends left without her. [lorn: adjective]
alone
Example
I prefer to be alone when I'm studying. [alone: adverb]
Example
He felt alone in the big city, surrounded by strangers. [alone: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alone is more commonly used than lorn in everyday language. Alone is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lorn is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lorn and alone?
Both lorn and alone can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but lorn may be considered more formal due to its archaic roots and poetic connotation.