Solo
/ˈsəʊloʊ/
Usage Pattern
Quick Memory Tip
Think of a lone star shining brilliantly – a solo performance is a single star on stage.
Definitions
3 meaningsSolo
(noun)/ˈsəʊloʊ/
A performance by one person
A performance or piece of music for one performer.
The guitarist began his solo during the bridge of the song.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're the only person on stage. That special performance just for you? That's a solo! Like when a singer sings a song all by themselves.
👶 For kids: When one person does something special by themselves, like singing a song or dancing, it's called a solo.
More Examples
Her dance solo showcased her incredible technique.
The jazz musician improvised a fantastic solo on his saxophone.
How It's Used
"The violinist played a beautiful solo."
"She performed a graceful solo in the ballet."
Solo
(adjective)/ˈsəʊloʊ/
Done without anyone else
Performed or done by one person alone; unaccompanied.
He embarked on a solo journey around the world.
💡 Simply: Going on a bike ride all by yourself? That's a solo ride! It means doing something alone, without any friends or partners.
👶 For kids: When you do something all by yourself, like playing a game or going for a walk, that's solo.
More Examples
The pilot made a solo flight to test the new aircraft.
She prefers a solo vacation to enjoy her own company.
How It's Used
"She took a solo trip across Europe."
"The cyclist won the race with a solo breakaway."
Solo
(verb)/ˈsəʊloʊ/
To perform a solo
To perform or play a solo.
The saxophonist soloed for several minutes.
💡 Simply: To solo is like when you take the microphone at a karaoke night and sing by yourself, or play the guitar.
👶 For kids: To do something special by yourself, like sing or dance, that's solo-ing.
More Examples
She will solo during the concert tonight.
He expertly soloed on the electric guitar.
How It's Used
"The guitarist soloed during the bridge."
From Italian *solo* ('alone'), from Latin *solus* ('alone, only').
The term 'solo' became increasingly common in the 19th century, particularly in musical contexts.
Word Origin
"alone"