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Unit 2: English In A Minute
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Session 49

Charlene explains the difference between 'alone' and 'lonely' in this English In A Minute.

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    Activity 1
  1. Activity 1

Activity 1

Alone vs lonely

What's the difference between 'alone' and 'lonely'? Chalrene is here to explain in this English In A Minute.

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Charlene 

What's the difference between alone and lonely? You're not alone - we're here to help you find out.

If you are alone, you're not with people: solo. Alone is an adjective.

For example: I was alone in the garden all afternoon. No other person was with me.

It can also be an adverb of manner: I live alone. I am the only person who lives in my house.

Lonely is an adjective. It means you are 'sad because you are not with other people'. It describes how someone feels.

He was very lonely when his family was away.

So remember alone is neutral but lonely is a negative emotion.

You can feel happy if you are alone, but if you are lonely, you are not happy.

That's it! Don't struggle with English alone - let us help.

 

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Learn more about feelings and emotions

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Alone vs lonely

alone 

Alone can be used as an adjective. It means that 'you're not with people'. It has a similar meaning to 'solo'.

  • I was alone when I got the call.
  • The dog was alone and couldn't find her pack.

Alone can also be used as an adverb. 

  • She usually works alone and doesn't like working in teams.
  • My uncle lives alone since his partner left.

lonely

Lonely is an adjective. It means you are 'sad because you are not with other people'. It describes how someone feels.

  • He felt so lonely and like he had no one to talk to.
  • I adopted a second dog to act as company for my first. I was worried she was feeling lonely.

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