单
独

About

The word 单独 is formed by combining two characters that each convey a related idea of singularity. 单 (dān) originally depicted something like a simplified target or a single unit, carrying the core meaning of "single" or "alone". 独 (dú), whose ancient form related to a solitary animal, reinforces this with its meaning of "sole" or "isolated". Together, they create a compound where each character semantically echoes and strengthens the other, merging to form the complete concept of "separate", "individual", or "by oneself".

Example Sentences Hide

我喜欢单独散步。

Wǒ xǐhuān dāndú sànbù.

I like to take a walk alone.

他经常单独去图书馆。

Tā jīngcháng dāndú qù túshūguǎn.

He often goes to the library alone.

如果你单独旅行，你会看到不同的风景。

Rúguǒ nǐ dāndú lǚxíng, nǐ huì kàndào bùtóng de fēngjǐng.

If you travel alone, you will see different scenery.

在会议上，他单独提出了一个新的方案。

Zài huìyì shàng, tā dāndú tíchūle yīgè xīn de fāng'àn.

At the meeting, he alone proposed a new plan.

尽管面临困难，她仍然选择单独完成这项任务。

Jǐnguǎn miànlín kùnnán, tā réngrán xuǎnzé dāndú wánchéng zhè xiàng rènwù.

Despite facing difficulties, she still chose to complete this task alone.

Word Definition - 单独

dān dú alone; by oneself; on one's own

Individual Character Details

单 shàn, chán, dān
独 dú