No one Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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no one
[noʊ wʌn ]
Definitions
used as a subject or object
Used to refer to nobody or not a single person.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| no one |
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize the absence of people.
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| nobody |
Similar to 'no one', this word can be used in both formal and informal settings but is slightly more casual.
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| not a soul |
This phrase is more poetic or dramatic and is often used for effect in literature, storytelling, or when you want to emphasize total emptiness.
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Examples of usage
- No one came to the party.
- I asked for help but no one responded.
- She was talking to no one in particular.
person who is not known or specified
An unknown or unspecified person.
Synonyms
anonymous person, unidentified individual.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| no one |
Used generally when referring to the absence of any person, often for emphasizing that nobody at all is involved or present.
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| anonymous person |
Used when referring to a person whose identity is intentionally kept secret, often in social or formal contexts.
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| unidentified individual |
Used in formal or official contexts when a person's identity is unknown or not revealed, often used in legal or reporting contexts.
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Examples of usage
- No one knows the answer.
- I received a gift from no one.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often express feelings of isolation with phrases similar to 'no one'.
- Many poems explore themes of loneliness, using 'no one' to highlight despair or lack of support.
- In modern literature, authors create narratives where 'no one' represents an important theme, emphasizing societal neglect.
Psychology
- Feeling like 'no one' cares can contribute to loneliness and depression, showing a link to emotional well-being.
- Group dynamics often show that when individuals feel excluded, they may express feelings of being 'no one' among peers.
- Studies suggest that social support can combat feelings of 'no one' in moments of distress, fostering connections.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'no one' is frequently used in song lyrics to express heartbreak and feelings of inadequacy.
- In movies and shows, characters often feel like 'no one' when facing challenges, capturing the audience's sympathy.
- Social media trends sometimes revolve around feeling like 'no one' in a crowd, sparking conversations about belonging.
Philosophy
- Discussions about existence often ponder what it means if 'no one' perceives an event.
- Philosophers may use the concept of 'no one' to debate the nature of reality and human perception.
- Existentialist thought sometimes revolves around the notion of individual significance versus feeling like 'no one'.
Origin of 'no one'
Main points about word origin
- 'No one' has roots in Old English where 'nān' meant 'not one'.
- The phrase evolves from the earlier use of 'nobody', combining 'no' and 'one' for emphasis.
- In Middle English, 'none' was used similarly, but 'no one' became more popular in Modern English.
The phrase 'no one' dates back to Middle English, originating from the Old English word 'nan', meaning 'not one'. Over time, it evolved into the modern usage of 'no one' to refer to nobody or not a single person.