nounadjectiveadverb

il solo

single · only · alone

Parola usata per dire che qualcuno è senza altre persone o che c’è una unica possibilità.

The Italian word "solo" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here is an explanation:

Meaning:

Alone / By oneself

When used as an adjective or adverb, solo means being alone, without company, or doing something by oneself.
- Example (adjective): Sono andato al cinema da solo. — I went to the cinema alone.
- Example (adverb): Lui ha cantato solo. — He sang solo (by himself).

Only / just / merely

Solo can also function as an adjective or adverb meaning "only" or "just," indicating exclusivity or limitation.
- Example (adjective): Ho solo dieci euro. — I have only ten euros.
- Example (adverb): Solo lui può aiutarti. — Only he can help you.

Word Parts:

Solo comes from Latin solus, meaning "alone." It has the same form for masculine singular; however, in Italian there are feminine and plural forms when used as an adjective:
- Masculine singular: solo
- Feminine singular: sola
- Masculine plural: soli
- Feminine plural: sole

Synonyms in Italian:

For "alone":
- da solo (by oneself)
- solitario (solitary, lonely)
- isolato (isolated)
For "only":
- unicamente
- soltanto
- esclusivamente
- meramente

Antonyms in Italian:

For "alone":
- insieme (together)
- accompagnato (accompanied)
- con altri (with others)
For "only":
- anche (also)
- oltre (besides)
- in più (in addition)

Summary:

"Solo" is a versatile Italian word meaning either "alone" or "only" depending on use. It changes form according to gender and number when used as an adjective, and has several synonyms and antonyms that reflect its meaning in different contexts.