single-handedly

/ˌsɪŋɡl ˈhændɪdli/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌsɪŋɡl ˈhændɪdli/ (ame, ipa)

single-handedly — adverb

1. done by one person alone, with no one else giving help or support, often when th

1.副詞B2
釋義

done by one person alone, with no one else giving help or support, often when the task is a notable achievement

例句

Lakan single-handedly built the bookshelves in his study over one weekend.

collocation: single-handedly + built [concrete project]

Jisoo single-handedly organised the entire charity event, from planning to clean-up.

position before main verb in past-tense narrative

同義詞
  • alone

    more general and neutral; simply means without other people nearby

  • independently

    emphasises self-sufficiency and freedom from outside guidance

  • unaided

    more formal; stresses the absence of external assistance, often in difficult circumstances

  • solo

    informal and common for performances, trips, or tasks done by one person

反義詞
  • together

    the most direct opposite; implies joint effort

  • collaboratively

    formal; emphasises working in a team or partnership

  • with help

    neutral phrase that states assistance was provided

文法句型

single-handedly + verb (past tense)

verb + single-handedly

negative construction: not + verb + single-handedly

用法筆記

Typically describes significant tasks or achievements carried out by one person. The adverb can appear before or after the main verb; pre-verb position adds emphasis. Adding 'alone' or 'by himself / herself' after 'single-handedly' is redundant and should be avoided.

常見錯誤

❌She single-handedly finished the whole report by herself.
✅She single-handedly finished the whole report.
💡'by herself' repeats the meaning of 'single-handedly'.
❌He single-handedly carried the box.
✅He carried the box by himself.
💡For small everyday tasks, 'single-handedly' sounds exaggerated; use 'by himself' instead.