What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
solo
Example
She played a beautiful solo on her guitar. [solo: noun]
Example
He decided to go on a solo trip to Europe. [solo: adjective]
solitary
Example
The prisoner spent years in solitary confinement. [solitary: adjective]
Example
She enjoyed the solitary life of living in the countryside. [solitary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Solitary is more commonly used than solo in everyday language, especially in phrases like 'solitary confinement' or 'solitary lifestyle.' However, solo is more common in music and performance contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between solo and solitary?
Both solo and solitary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but solitary may be perceived as more formal due to its Latin origin.
