English Reference
adjective · adverb · noun · verb

solo

adj. · adv. · n. · v.
US /ˈsoʊˌɫoʊ/ UK /sˈəʊləʊ/ so·lo UK spelling solo's, solo's, soloed, soloing

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.done by one person alone, without any help or companions.

    adj.performed or undertaken by a single individual without accompaniment or supervision.

    Simple

    After months of training, the pilot finally completed her first solo flight.

    In context

    The climber's solo ascent of the north face was hailed as a masterpiece of technical skill and mental endurance.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it describes.

    aloneunaccompaniedsingle handed
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    adv.doing an activity without anyone else with you.

    adv.acting or performing alone; without a partner or companion.

    Simple

    He decided to travel solo across Europe to meet new people.

    In context

    Although she enjoyed the band, she often preferred to perform solo to have more creative control over the setlist.

    Usage

    Typically follows the verb it modifies.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary Music

    n.a piece of music or a dance performed by just one person.

    n.a musical composition or passage for a single voice or instrument, with or without accompaniment.

    Simple

    The guitarist played a long solo while the other musicians waited.

    In context

    The concerto features a demanding violin solo that tests the performer's mastery of high-position intonation.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    v.to perform an action or a task by yourself.

    v.to perform a task or activity independently, often implying the absence of a team or support.

    Simple

    She had to solo the entire project after her partner got sick.

    In context

    In many online games, players must decide whether to join a guild or attempt to solo the most difficult dungeons.

    Usage

    Commonly used in gaming and workplace contexts to describe working without a team.

    handle alone
  5. 05 C1 Advanced Slang Computing

    v.to finish a very difficult job or challenge all by yourself.

    v.to independently execute a complex or challenging operation, particularly in technical or competitive environments.

    Simple

    He managed to solo the boss at the end of the game.

    In context

    The lead developer had to solo the migration process when the rest of the team was reassigned to the new product launch.

    Usage

    Often used in gaming (MMORPGs) or software engineering to describe high-skill individual effort.

At least we have an explanation for why this prodigiously funny and talented man hasn’t gone solo before.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026

Over recent years, Europe’s major museums have been opening up to shows of women’s work – in 2016, Peeters became the first woman ever to be given a solo show at the Prado.

The Guardian· 7 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated