Solo

Definition

Solo often refers to a task or performance carried out by a single individual separately from others or a musical piece or section meant to be performed by a single performer.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Adverb
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsoʊloʊ/
• Respelling: SOH-loh (with "SOH" as in "so" and "loh" as in "low")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsəʊləʊ/
• Respelling: SOH-loh (similar to American English, with "SOH" as in "so" and "loh" like in "low")

In both dialects, "solo" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SOH." The pronunciation of "solo" is consistent between American and British English, clearly indicating the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

Etymology

The term "solo" originates from the Italian word "solo," which means alone. It is derived from Latin "sōlus" meaning alone or only.

Derivatives

• Soloist
• Soloism
• Soloness

Synonyms

• Alone
• Unaccompanied
• Single

Antonyms

• Accompanied
• Group
• Ensemble

Usage

The term "solo" is predominantly used in the realms of music and performance, though it's also used in casual speech and other domains to refer to actions undertaken alone or without assistance.

Related Terms

• Solo performance
• Solo album
• Solo flight

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Musical Performance: A piece of music or section within a musical piece intended to be performed by a single musician or singer.
• Example: She played a violin solo in the concert.

Adjective

• Individual: Pertaining to a single person or thing as opposed to more than one.
• Example: He made a solo flight across the Atlantic.

Adverb

• Individually: Done by a person alone; unaccompanied.
• Example: He decided to go solo on this project.

Verb

• Perform Alone: To perform something alone or without accompaniment.
• Example: She will solo the final act of the play.