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solitary

[ˈsɒlɪt(ə)ri]

solitary Definition

  • 1done or existing alone
  • 2not shared with others
  • 3single; only
  • 4isolated and lonely
  • 5a place where a person lives alone

Using solitary: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "solitary" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He spent a solitary evening at home.

  • Example

    The prisoner was kept in solitary confinement for weeks.

  • Example

    She enjoys solitary walks in the countryside.

  • Example

    The island is a solitary place, with no other inhabitants.

solitary Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for solitary

Idioms Using solitary

  • a person who is alone and isolated, often in a way that suggests sadness or melancholy

    Example

    He stood on the hilltop, a solitary figure against the sunset.

  • an activity that is done alone, often as a hobby or pastime

    Example

    Reading is a solitary pursuit that she enjoys in her free time.

  • a bad habit or addiction that is done alone and in secret

    Example

    His solitary vice was smoking, which he tried to hide from his family.

Phrases with solitary

  • an animal that lives alone rather than in a group

    Example

    Tigers are solitary animals and prefer to hunt alone.

  • a type of bee that does not live in colonies but nests alone

    Example

    Mason bees are solitary bees that nest in small holes in wood.

  • a form of imprisonment in which a prisoner is isolated from any human contact, often for extended periods of time

    Example

    The use of solitary confinement as a punishment has been criticized by human rights groups.

Origins of solitary

from Latin 'solitarius', meaning 'lonely'

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Summary: solitary in Brief

The term 'solitary' [ˈsɒlɪt(ə)ri] refers to being alone or existing without others. It can describe a person, place, or thing, such as 'solitary confinement.' The word can also denote a preference for being alone, as in 'She enjoys solitary walks in the countryside.' 'Solitary' has idiomatic uses, such as 'a solitary figure,' implying isolation and sadness, and 'solitary pursuit,' indicating a hobby or pastime done alone.

How do native speakers use this expression?