working alone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working alone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is performing a task or activity without the assistance or company of others. Example: "I prefer working alone when I need to focus on complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Consider an inmate working alone.

The Economist

Working Alone: Individuals should not be working alone in laboratories.

Princeton University

Do you enjoy working alone?

The Guardian - Books

So working alone is interesting.

The New York Times - Arts

Try to avoid working alone wherever possible.

Stanford University

Leibovitz was used to working alone.

The Guardian - Arts

One bacterium, working alone, can't accomplish much.

The New York Times - Science

Do you find working alone difficult?

The Guardian - Books

I'm working alone on the top floor.

The Guardian - Books

Maradona working alone is an unknown quantity.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Working together is much better than working... alone.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing professional environments, be mindful of whether "working alone" implies autonomy or isolation, choosing more positive language like "independent work" to highlight self-direction.

Common error

In many professional settings, highlighting teamwork is crucial. If describing a role that involves both independent tasks and collaboration, balance the focus to avoid the impression that the individual is always isolated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working alone" primarily functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a subject or part of a predicate. It describes the act of performing tasks or activities without assistance, as seen in the Ludwig examples where it modifies nouns or expresses a state of being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "working alone" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes performing tasks independently. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, though its neutrality means it can be used in both positive and negative framings. While common in news, academic and scientific writing, being mindful of the connotations is key, choosing synonyms like "operating solo" or "functioning independently" to emphasize positive aspects of autonomy when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting independently

Stresses the self-reliance and freedom from external influence in one's actions.

operating solo

Emphasizes the independent nature of the activity, similar to a performance or mission.

going it alone

An idiomatic expression emphasizing self-reliance and the absence of support.

functioning independently

Highlights the ability to perform a task without external help or supervision.

flying solo

An idiomatic expression indicating performing a task without assistance, often in a professional context.

performing individually

Focuses on the personal execution of a task, contrasting with teamwork.

doing it oneself

Focuses on the personal involvement and lack of delegation in completing a task.

undertaking single-handedly

Emphasizes the lack of assistance and the personal effort involved.

executing autonomously

Highlights self-governance and freedom from external control in performing a task.

pursuing in isolation

Emphasizes the separation and lack of social interaction while performing the activity.

FAQs

What are the advantages of "working alone"?

Advantages of "working alone" often include increased focus, uninterrupted time for deep thought, and the ability to set your own pace and schedule. It can also foster a sense of ownership and pride in the completed work.

What are the disadvantages of "working alone"?

Disadvantages can include isolation, lack of immediate feedback or support, and potential for slower progress due to the absence of collaborative problem-solving. It may also limit opportunities for learning and skill development through interaction with others.

What can I say instead of "working alone" to emphasize independence?

To emphasize independence, you could use alternatives like "operating solo", "functioning independently", or "executing autonomously".

Is it always better to work in a team than "working alone"?

Not necessarily. The optimal approach depends on the specific task, the individual's skills and preferences, and the organizational culture. Some tasks benefit from the focused effort of an individual "working alone", while others require the diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving of a team.