Definition and meaning of English word "lonely"
lonely
/ˈlɒn.lɪ/
Meaning
AdjectiveUnhappy due to feeling isolated from contact with other people.
How to use
The adjective 'lonely' is often used to describe a person's emotional state, typically in informal contexts. A common learner mistake is to confuse 'lonely' with 'alone', which simply means having no one else present, without implying a negative emotional state. For instance, 'I like being alone to read' versus 'I feel lonely when I'm alone.'
🇬🇧 English
lonely
Example
I feel lonely when I'm alone.
The lonely dog was happy to see its owner.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- feel lonely— feel lonely
- lonely heart— lonely heart
- lonely island— lonely island
More Adjectives words
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #854 in English
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common English words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "lonely" mean?▼
The English word "lonely" means "lonely" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "lonely"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "lonely" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "lonely"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "I feel lonely when I'm alone." (which translates as "lonely").
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →