Definition of Alone
Quick Meaning of Alone
By yourself with no one else there; without friends, family, or other people.
Detailed Definition of Alone
Without any other person present; without company or companions.
How to Pronounce Alone
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: The first syllable is schwa (uh), unstressed; stress falls on the second syllable: uh-LONE. The 'a' sound is long like in 'go'.
Watch out: Pronounced 'uh-LOAN' instead of 'uh-LONE'; the vowel in the second syllable is /oʊ/ not /oʊn/ sound.
Origin and Etymology of Alone
Middle English 'al one', literally meaning 'all one'; combined from 'all' + 'one'.
How to Use Alone in a Sentence
Each example shows “alone” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She walked alone through the park.”
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“I don't like being alone at night.”
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“The child felt alone despite being surrounded by classmates who ignored her concerns.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Alone
Common Synonyms for Alone
Smart Synonyms for Alone — When to Use Each
- solitary
- for describing someone who is intentionally or habitually
- isolated
- when emphasizing emotional or physical separation from others
Antonyms of Alone
Common Collocations with Alone
These phrases pair with “alone” in everyday English:
- feel alone
- all alone
- stand alone
- leave someone alone
- alone at home
Common Mistakes When Using Alone
Even fluent speakers slip up with “alone”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I am alone student in the class.
- ✓ Correct: I am the only student in the class or I am alone in the classroom.
- Why: 'Alone' is an adjective for a person's state, not for describing someone as the only member of a group; use 'only' for that.
- ✗ Wrong: She walks alone to school and it makes her lonely.
- ✓ Correct: She walks alone to school and it makes her feel lonely.
- Why: 'Lonely' is an adjective describing how someone feels; use 'feel lonely' rather than 'makes her lonely'.
Words Confused With Alone
- Alone vs Lonely: Alone describes physical fact of being without others; lonely describes the sad feeling from being alone. Compare →
Other Forms of Alone
- Adjective: alone
Frequently Asked Questions About Alone
What is the meaning of "Alone"?
By yourself with no one else there; without friends, family, or other people.
How do you pronounce "Alone"?
The IPA is /əˈloʊn/. The first syllable is schwa (uh), unstressed; stress falls on the second syllable: uh-LONE. The 'a' sound is long like in 'go'.
What part of speech is "Alone"?
"Alone" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Alone"?
Common synonyms include solitary, isolated, unaccompanied.
How do you use "Alone" in a sentence?
For example: "She walked alone through the park."