Translation guide
The English word 'alone' can describe being physically by oneself, feeling lonely, or doing something without help. Japanese expresses these nuances with different words and phrases, and often relies on context rather than a direct translation.
Describing a state where no one else is present, without necessarily implying loneliness.
The most common and neutral way to say 'alone' in the sense of being by oneself. Can be used as a noun or adverb.
He lives alone.
Same reading as 一人, but this kanji emphasizes solitude or being on one's own. Often used in literary or emotional contexts.
Emphasizes doing something by oneself, without others. Often used when contrasting with doing something in a group.
I'll try doing it alone.
Formal or technical term for 'alone' or 'solo', often used in news or official contexts.
He climbed the mountain alone.
Expressing an emotional state of loneliness, even when others are around.
Accomplishing a task independently, without assistance from others.
The most common way to say 'by oneself' or 'alone' when doing something without help.
Emphasizing that someone or something is unique or singular in a context.
Means 'the only' or 'sole'. Used as a pre-noun modifier.
In English, 'alone' can be neutral, but 'lonely' is always negative. In Japanese, 一人 (hitori) is neutral, while 寂しい (sabishii) is negative. Be careful not to use 寂しい when you simply mean 'by myself' without sadness.
I like being alone.
Both read as ひとり. 一人 is the everyday kanji for 'one person' or 'alone'. 独り is used in literary or emotional contexts to emphasize solitude, as in 独り言 (talking to oneself) or 独りぼっち (all alone). In most situations, 一人 is sufficient.
I went to see a movie alone.
A night all alone
The standard adjective for feeling lonely or missing someone. Can describe both a person and a situation.
I feel lonely when I'm alone.
It's a lonely night, isn't it?
A noun or na-adjective meaning 'solitude' or 'loneliness'. Often carries a heavier, more existential tone than 寂しい.
I feel alone/lonely.
Describes feeling helpless and anxious from being alone or lacking support. Often used when in an unfamiliar place.
It's lonely and unsettling being alone in an unfamiliar city.
I was able to solve this problem alone.
Emphasizes using one's own power or effort, without relying on others.
He started the company alone (by himself).
Similar to 自力で but more formal and less common. Used in written language.
He completed the research alone.
He is the only survivor.