Singly: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions or occurrences that happen one at a time or by oneself. Often implies a sense of doing something alone without help or support.

• He solved the puzzles singly, without any assistance.
• The tasks need to be completed singly to ensure quality.

Refers to actions taken by or concerning each person or thing separately rather than collectively. Often used in a more formal or precise context.

• Each student was called individually to receive their award.
• The cookies were individually wrapped for freshness.

Implies that things are dealt with or considered apart from others. Often used to emphasize the distinction or individual treatment of each item or person.

• Please pack the items separately to avoid damage.
• They decided to work separately on different parts of the project.

Describes a sequential process where each person or thing is dealt with in turn. It provides a clear sense of order and progression.

• The teacher reviewed the assignments one by one.
• They entered the room one by one, taking their seats as they went.

Used when emphasizing doing something one at a time or individually, similar to 'separately'.

• The teacher assessed the students singly to give better feedback.
• They entered the room singly to avoid making noise.

This word is often used when emphasizing the absence of others, highlighting solitude. It can have a negative connotation if it implies loneliness.

• He prefers to work alone, without any distractions.
• After the party, she found herself alone in the empty house.

Rarely used in everyday conversation, this term emphasizes being in a solitary manner, often with a literary or formal tone.

• The monk lived solitarily in the remote mountains.
• He walked solitarily through the deserted streets.

Best used when highlighting self-sufficiency or autonomy, showing that someone or something is functioning without reliance on others.

• She completed the project independently, without any help.
• Children are encouraged to think independently in this school.