At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe people and their actions. You might already know the word '혼자' (honja), which means 'alone.' The word 홀로 (hollo) is like a special, more 'fancy' version of '혼자.' Even though it is a bit more advanced, you can understand it as a way to say someone is doing something by themselves. At this level, you don't need to use it in your own speaking yet, but you might see it in simple storybooks or hear it in the chorus of a song. Imagine a picture of one person sitting on a bench in a park. If you want to say 'The person is sitting alone,' you could say '사람이 홀로 앉아 있어요.' It sounds a bit like a storybook. The most important thing to remember at A1 is that 홀로 means 'one person' or 'by oneself.' It is an adverb, which means it usually comes right before the action word (verb). For example, if you are walking alone, you can say '홀로 걸어요.' It's a very short and easy word to remember because it has two simple sounds: 'hol' and 'lo.' Just think of it as a poetic way to say 'one.'
As an A2 learner, you are building more sentences about your daily life and feelings. You can start to distinguish between '혼자' and 홀로 (hollo). While you use '혼자' for things like 'I eat alone' (혼자 밥 먹어요), you can use 홀로 when you want to describe something in a slightly more emotional or descriptive way. For example, if you are looking at a photo of a lonely mountain, you might say '산이 홀로 있어요' (The mountain stands alone). At this level, you should notice that 홀로 is often used with verbs like '있다' (to be/exist), '살다' (to live), and '걷다' (to walk). It gives your Korean a slightly more 'written' or 'literary' feel. You might also encounter it in simple song lyrics. If a singer says '홀로 남겨졌어,' they are saying 'I was left all alone.' The 'hollo' makes it sound sadder than just saying 'honja.' You can practice by trying to describe a single object in a room using this word. '방에 시계가 홀로 걸려 있어요' (A clock is hanging alone in the room). This helps you move beyond basic communication and start using words that have more 'flavor.'
At the B1 level, you are becoming an intermediate learner, and 홀로 (hollo) becomes a very useful word for expressing nuance. You should understand that this word is preferred in literature, song lyrics, and formal writing. It emphasizes the state of solitude. One of the key phrases you should learn at this level is 홀로서기 (holloseogi), which means 'standing on one's own' or 'becoming independent.' This is a common theme in Korean culture, especially for young people or people starting a new chapter in life. You can use 홀로 to describe a person's strength or their isolation. For instance, '그는 역경 속에서도 홀로 피어난 꽃 같다' (He is like a flower that bloomed alone even in hardship). This level of expression shows that you understand the poetic side of Korean. You should also be careful not to use it in very casual, 'slangy' conversations, as it might sound too dramatic. Instead, use it when you are writing a journal entry, a letter, or describing a scene in a movie. You are now moving from just 'knowing' the word to 'feeling' the difference between physical singleness and the deeper concept of solitude that 홀로 provides.
At the B2 level, you should be able to use 홀로 (hollo) with precision in various contexts. You understand that it is a pure Korean adverb and carries a different weight than Sino-Korean alternatives like '단독으로' (dandokeuro). You can use 홀로 to discuss social issues, such as the increasing number of '홀로 사는 노인' (elderly living alone), which is a major topic in Korean news. In this context, the word evokes a sense of social responsibility and empathy. You should also be comfortable using it in abstract ways. For example, '진실을 위해 홀로 싸우다' (To fight alone for the truth). Here, 홀로 emphasizes the bravery and the singular nature of the struggle. You can also distinguish it from '외로이' (lonelily); while '외로이' focuses on the sad emotion, 홀로 focuses on the fact of being the only one, which can be either sad or heroic. Your ability to choose 홀로 over '혼자' in a formal essay or a presentation will demonstrate a high level of linguistic sophistication. You should also recognize it in classical and modern poetry, where it often symbolizes the human condition or the path of an artist.
As a C1 learner, your understanding of 홀로 (hollo) should be deeply rooted in its literary and historical context. You recognize that this word is a favorite of Korean poets because of its soft phonetics and its ability to evoke 'Jeong' (affection) or 'Han' (unresolved grief) depending on the setting. You can analyze how 홀로 functions in complex grammatical structures and how it contributes to the overall 'mood' (bunwigi) of a text. For example, in a literary critique, you might discuss how a protagonist's decision to live 홀로 represents a rejection of societal norms. You should also be aware of its usage in traditional songs like 'Arirang,' where it conveys a sense of national or personal longing. At this level, you can use the word to create specific rhetorical effects. You might use it to contrast the individual with the collective in a philosophical debate. You also understand the subtle difference between '홀로' and '그저 혼자서'—the former suggesting a state of being, the latter suggesting a simple lack of assistance. Your use of 홀로 should feel natural and well-timed, appearing in your speech or writing when you want to add a touch of elegance, gravity, or profound reflection.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 홀로 (hollo) and its place in the vast tapestry of the Korean language. You can appreciate the word's etymological journey and its resonance across different eras of Korean history. You understand that 홀로 is not just an adverb but a cultural symbol of the 'solitary path.' You can use it to discuss existential themes in high-level academic or philosophical discourse, perhaps comparing the Korean concept of 홀로 with Western concepts of 'solitude' vs. 'loneliness.' You are capable of using it in creative writing to evoke specific, subtle emotions that '혼자' simply cannot reach. You might use it to describe the 'solitary brilliance' of a scientific discovery or the 'solitary mourning' of a nation. Your mastery allows you to play with the word, perhaps using it ironically or in unexpected collocations to create a unique voice. You also recognize its presence in the most sophisticated forms of media, from experimental cinema to avant-garde poetry, and you can explain its impact on the audience. To you, 홀로 is a versatile tool that can express the highest peaks of human independence and the deepest depths of individual isolation with just two syllables.

홀로 30秒で

  • An adverb meaning 'alone' or 'by oneself' with a poetic and formal nuance.
  • Used frequently in lyrics, literature, and to describe significant life independence.
  • Distinguished from '혼자' by its emotional depth and higher stylistic register.
  • Often found in the context of standing alone, living alone, or being left alone.
The Korean word 홀로 (hollo) is a beautiful and evocative adverb that translates primarily to 'alone,' 'by oneself,' or 'solitarily.' While it shares a basic definition with the more common word 혼자 (honja), it carries a significantly different emotional weight and stylistic register. To understand 홀로, one must look beyond the mere physical state of being unaccompanied and delve into the nuances of solitude, independence, and sometimes, a poignant sense of isolation. In everyday conversation, Koreans might use 'honja' to describe eating lunch or going to the movies. However, when a writer, songwriter, or speaker chooses 홀로, they are often painting a picture of a lone figure against a vast landscape, or an individual standing firm in their convictions despite a lack of support.
Grammatical Category
Adverb (부사). It modifies verbs to describe how an action is performed—specifically, that it is done without others.
Register and Tone
Literary, poetic, and formal. It is frequently found in lyrics, literature, and formal speeches rather than casual text messages between friends.

그는 넓은 바다를 홀로 항해했다.

Translation: He sailed the wide sea alone.
Historically, the word has roots in Middle Korean and has maintained its status as a 'pure' Korean word (pureun-uri-mal), which contributes to its aesthetic appeal. It doesn't just mean 'without company'; it often implies a state of being that is self-contained. For instance, the phrase 홀로서기 (holloseogi) refers to standing on one's own feet or achieving independence, often used in the context of a young adult becoming self-sufficient or a person recovering from a breakup. In modern media, you will hear this word in countless K-pop ballads. For example, Lee Hi's famous song 'Holo' uses the word to explore the feeling of being alone even when surrounded by others, or the process of learning to be okay by oneself. This highlights the word's versatility: it can represent both the sadness of loneliness and the strength of independence.

달빛 아래 홀로 앉아 생각에 잠겼다.

Translation: Sitting alone under the moonlight, I was lost in thought.
Common Pairings
Often paired with verbs of movement (걷다 - walk, 떠나다 - leave) or verbs of existence (남다 - remain, 서다 - stand).
In summary, 홀로 is more than a synonym for 'alone.' It is a word that carries the weight of the human condition—the inherent solitude of existence, the beauty of self-reliance, and the quiet dignity of a person who does not need a crowd to be complete. Whether used in a tragic poem about a lost love or an inspiring speech about self-determination, it remains one of the most resonant adverbs in the Korean language.
Using 홀로 (hollo) correctly requires an understanding of its adverbial function and its stylistic placement. Unlike adjectives, which describe a noun, 홀로 describes the *manner* in which an action is performed. It typically appears before the verb it modifies.
Basic Structure
[Subject] + [Context/Location] + 홀로 + [Verb]. For example: '어머니는 방에 홀로 계셨다' (Mother was alone in the room).
One of the most common ways to use 홀로 is to emphasize the absence of others in a significant or emotional context. While you *could* say '혼자 밥을 먹어요' (I eat alone) in a casual setting, saying '홀로 식탁에 앉아 있었다' (He was sitting alone at the dining table) creates a much more vivid, perhaps slightly melancholic, image.

그는 홀로 남겨진 기분이 들었다.

Translation: He felt like he was left all alone.
Another frequent usage is in the phrase 홀로 서다. This literally means 'to stand alone,' but it is almost always used metaphorically to mean 'to become independent' or 'to stand on one's own two feet.' This is a powerful expression in Korean culture, which traditionally values collectivism; 'standing alone' represents a significant personal milestone or a brave departure from the norm. In more complex sentences, 홀로 can be used to contrast one person's actions with a group. For instance, '모두가 떠났지만 그는 홀로 자리를 지켰다' (Everyone left, but he alone kept his place). Here, the word highlights his steadfastness and loyalty.

밤하늘에 별 하나가 홀로 빛나고 있다.

Translation: A single star is shining alone in the night sky.
Negative vs. Positive Nuance
Negative: '홀로 남겨지다' (to be left alone/abandoned). Positive: '홀로 서다' (to stand independently). The meaning is heavily dependent on the verb that follows.
When writing, pay attention to the flow. 홀로 often starts a clause or follows the subject immediately to set the tone for the rest of the sentence. It is a 'heavy' word, meaning it draws the reader's attention and signals that the following action is significant. Avoid using it for trivial tasks like 'I brushed my teeth alone' unless you are writing a very dramatic story about dental hygiene! Instead, reserve it for moments of reflection, bravery, or deep solitude.
While you might not hear 홀로 (hollo) in a bustling fish market or a casual university cafeteria, it is omnipresent in Korean cultural life. Its primary 'habitat' is in the world of art and media. If you listen to K-pop ballads, especially those by artists like IU, Lee Hi, or legendary singers like Cho Yong-pil, you will encounter 홀로 frequently. In lyrics, it serves as a shorthand for the universal human experience of feeling solitary.
Music Lyrics
Lyrics often use '홀로' to describe the aftermath of a breakup. '홀로 남은 방' (a room where I am left alone) is a classic trope that evokes immediate empathy from the listener.
In Korean literature and poetry, 홀로 is a staple. It is used to describe the 'noble solitude' of scholars or the lonely path of a revolutionary. In historical dramas (Sageuk), you might hear a king or a warrior use this word to express the burden of leadership—that they must make difficult decisions hollo, without the help of others.

그는 홀로 아리랑을 부르며 고향을 그리워했다.

Translation: He missed his hometown while singing Arirang alone.
Another place you will see this word is in news headlines and sociological discussions. Korea is currently experiencing a rise in '1-person households' (1인 가구). While the technical term is '1-person household,' journalists often use phrases like 홀로 사는 노인 (elderly people living alone) to highlight the social issue of isolation among the aged. In this context, the word carries a sense of social responsibility and concern.
Movie Titles and Books
Many Korean book titles use '홀로' to suggest a journey of self-discovery. A title like '홀로 걷는 길' (The Path Walked Alone) suggests a philosophical or spiritual memoir.
You might also hear it in documentaries. A narrator describing a rare animal might say, '이 새는 평생을 홀로 살아갑니다' (This bird lives its whole life alone). Here, it adds a touch of majesty and mystery to the biological fact. In summary, while you might not use it to ask your friend if they are going to the store by themselves, you will find it whenever Koreans talk about the deeper, more significant aspects of being an individual in a complex world.
The most frequent mistake learners make with 홀로 (hollo) is using it in contexts that are too casual or mundane. Because English uses the word 'alone' for both 'I'm eating alone' and 'He died alone in the wilderness,' learners often assume 홀로 and 혼자 are interchangeable. They are not.
Mistake 1: Casual Overuse
Saying '나 홀로 숙제했어' (I did my homework alone) to a friend sounds incredibly dramatic, almost like you're writing a tragic poem about your math problems. Use '혼자' for daily tasks.
Another common error is confusing 홀로 with the adjective 외롭다 (oeropda - to be lonely). While 홀로 describes the *state* of being alone, 외롭다 describes the *feeling* of loneliness. You can be 홀로 without being 외롭다 (e.g., a monk meditating), and you can be 외롭다 even when you aren't 홀로 (e.g., feeling lonely in a crowd).

Incorrect: 나는 홀로이다. (I am alone - grammatically awkward as a sentence ending).
Correct: 나는 홀로 있다. (I am [staying] alone).

Mistake 2: Misplacing the Particle
Learners sometimes try to add the particle '-서' (which is common with '혼자서') to '홀로'. While '홀로' is occasionally seen as '홀로이', '홀로' itself is already a complete adverb. '홀로서' is not a standard form.
Finally, be careful with the nuance of 'independence.' While 홀로 can mean independent, it's usually in a 'standing on your own' sense. If you mean 'independent' in a political or systematic sense, use 독립 (dongnip). Using 홀로 for a country's independence would sound very strange and overly personified.

Mistake: 그 나라는 홀로 되었다. (That country became alone).
Correct: 그 나라는 독립했다. (That country became independent).

To avoid these mistakes, always ask yourself: 'Is this a poetic or significant moment?' If the answer is yes, 홀로 is your friend. If you're just talking about who you went to the convenience store with, stick with '혼자'.
To master 홀로 (hollo), you must understand its neighbors in the Korean vocabulary of solitude. The most important comparison is with 혼자 (honja).
홀로 vs. 혼자
혼자: Everyday, neutral, can be a noun or adverb. '혼자 가요' (I'm going alone).
홀로: Poetic, emotional, strictly an adverb. '홀로 가리라' (I shall go alone - sounds like a vow).
Another similar word is 외로이 (oero-i). This is the adverbial form of 'lonely.' While 홀로 describes the objective fact of being alone (even if poetically), 외로이 explicitly adds a layer of sadness or longing.

꽃 한 송이가 외로이 피어 있다.

Translation: A single flower is blooming lonelily (evokes pity).
Then there is 단독으로 (dandok-euro). This is a more formal, often legal or technical term meaning 'individually' or 'solely.' You would use this in a business context, such as '단독으로 계약을 체결했다' (Signed the contract alone/solely). It lacks the emotional depth of 홀로.
스스로 (seuseuro)
This means 'by oneself' in the sense of 'on one's own initiative' or 'voluntarily.' While '홀로' means no one else is there, '스스로' means you did it without being told or helped.
고립되어 (gorip-doeeo)
This means 'being isolated.' It is more negative than '홀로' and implies being cut off from others against one's will or due to circumstances.
Choosing the right word depends on the 'flavor' of solitude you want to convey. If you want to emphasize the beauty or the profound nature of being an individual, 홀로 is almost always the best choice. It elevates the sentence from a simple statement of fact to a piece of linguistic art.

그는 홀로 길을 떠났다.

Translation: He set out on a journey alone (suggests a grand or significant journey).
Understanding these distinctions will help you not only speak more accurately but also appreciate the rich textures of Korean literature and music where these words are used to such great effect.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

Because it is a pure Korean word, it is often used in 'Pure Korean' naming and branding to evoke a traditional and aesthetic feel. Many people find pure Korean words like '홀로' to be more 'soulful' than Sino-Korean words.

発音ガイド

UK /hʌl.lo/
US /hoʊl.loʊ/
In Korean, syllables generally have equal stress, but a slight emphasis is often placed on the first syllable '홀' (hol).
韻が合う語
솔로 (solo) 욜로 (YOLO) 별로 (byeol-lo) 컬러 (color - similar sound) 졸로 (jol-lo) 굴로 (gul-lo) 길로 (gil-lo) 말로 (mal-lo)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the 'l' sounds too softly. In '홀로', the 'l' is doubled (ㄹㄹ), making it very distinct.
  • Confusing the 'o' sound with 'u'. It should be 'hol-lo', not 'hul-lu'.
  • Adding a pause between the syllables. It should flow smoothly as one word.
  • Pronouncing it like 'horo'. The 'l' sound is a lateral liquid, not a flap 'r'.
  • Over-emphasizing the second syllable, which can sound unnatural.

難易度

読解 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts, but requires understanding context to grasp the nuance.

ライティング 4/5

Hard to know when to use it instead of '혼자' without sounding too dramatic.

スピーキング 4/5

Requires a good sense of register to use naturally in conversation.

リスニング 2/5

Very clear pronunciation and commonly used in songs.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

혼자 (Alone) 하나 (One) 있다 (To be) 살다 (To live) 사람 (Person)

次に学ぶ

외롭다 (To be lonely) 고독 (Solitude) 독립 (Independence) 스스로 (By oneself/initiative) 단독 (Sole)

上級

호젓하다 (To be quiet and solitary) 쓸쓸하다 (To be lonely and chilly) 적적하다 (To be lonely and quiet) 고립 (Isolation) 자립 (Self-reliance)

知っておくべき文法

Adverb Placement

홀로 (Adverb) + 걷다 (Verb) = 홀로 걷다.

-기 Noun Nominalization

홀로 서다 -> 홀로서기 (The act of standing alone).

Honorifics with Adverbs

할머니께서 홀로 계십니다. (Adverb doesn't change, verb does).

Passive Voice with Adverbs

홀로 남겨지다 (To be left alone).

Contrastive Use

다른 사람들은 다 갔지만, 나만 홀로 남았다.

レベル別の例文

1

그는 홀로 앉아 있어요.

He is sitting alone.

홀로 is used before the verb '앉아 있다'.

2

꽃이 홀로 피었어요.

A flower bloomed alone.

홀로 describes how the flower bloomed.

3

아이가 홀로 놀아요.

The child plays alone.

Used to show the child has no playmates.

4

홀로 가지 마세요.

Don't go alone.

Negative command with 홀로.

5

저는 홀로 공부해요.

I study alone.

Describes the manner of studying.

6

새가 홀로 날아요.

A bird flies alone.

Emphasizes the bird is by itself.

7

그는 홀로 웃고 있어요.

He is laughing alone.

Shows the action is done without others.

8

집에 홀로 있어요.

I am alone at home.

Indicates presence without company.

1

어머니는 방에서 홀로 책을 읽으십니다.

Mother reads a book alone in the room.

Honorific verb with 홀로.

2

밤하늘에 달이 홀로 떠 있습니다.

The moon is floating alone in the night sky.

Poetic description of nature.

3

그는 친구 없이 홀로 여행을 떠났다.

He went on a trip alone without friends.

Emphasizes the lack of companions.

4

강아지가 길에 홀로 남겨졌어요.

A puppy was left alone on the street.

Passive form '남겨지다' with 홀로.

5

우리는 그를 홀로 두지 않을 거예요.

We won't leave him alone.

Future tense with a promise.

6

그녀는 홀로 노래를 부르기 시작했다.

She started to sing a song alone.

Describes the start of an action.

7

할아버지는 홀로 산책을 하십니다.

Grandfather takes a walk alone.

Daily routine in a formal tone.

8

이 넓은 세상에 홀로 있는 것 같아요.

I feel like I'm alone in this wide world.

Expressing a feeling using 것 같다.

1

그는 이제 부모님을 떠나 홀로서기를 준비한다.

He is now preparing to stand on his own after leaving his parents.

Use of the noun form '홀로서기'.

2

아무도 도와주지 않았지만 그는 홀로 해냈다.

No one helped, but he did it alone.

Emphasizes self-achievement.

3

홀로 남은 시간 동안 많은 생각을 했다.

I thought a lot during the time I was left alone.

Describing a period of solitude.

4

그녀는 홀로 아이를 키우며 열심히 살았다.

She lived hard while raising her child alone.

Describes a long-term life situation.

5

산 정상에 홀로 서니 기분이 묘했다.

Standing alone at the top of the mountain, I felt strange.

Conveying an emotional state.

6

그 영화는 주인공이 홀로 살아남는 이야기다.

The movie is a story about the protagonist surviving alone.

Describing a plot or theme.

7

홀로 있는 시간을 즐기는 법을 배워야 한다.

You must learn how to enjoy the time spent alone.

Positive view of solitude.

8

그는 홀로 깊은 슬픔에 잠겨 있었다.

He was immersed in deep sadness alone.

Describing an emotional state.

1

정부는 홀로 사는 노인들을 위한 대책을 마련했다.

The government prepared measures for the elderly living alone.

Formal/News context.

2

그는 거대 기업에 맞서 홀로 싸우고 있다.

He is fighting alone against a giant corporation.

Metaphorical use for a struggle.

3

작가는 홀로 고뇌하며 작품을 완성했다.

The writer completed the work while agonizing alone.

Describes the creative process.

4

이 섬에는 이름 모를 꽃들이 홀로 피어 있다.

On this island, unknown flowers are blooming alone.

Literary description of nature.

5

그는 홀로 남겨진 두려움을 극복해야 했다.

He had to overcome the fear of being left alone.

Abstract concept of fear.

6

모두가 반대할 때 그는 홀로 찬성표를 던졌다.

When everyone opposed, he alone cast a vote in favor.

Highlighting individual action against a group.

7

홀로 떠나는 여행은 자신을 돌아보는 계기가 된다.

Traveling alone becomes an opportunity to reflect on oneself.

Reflective/Philosophical tone.

8

그녀는 홀로 무대에 서서 관객을 압도했다.

She stood alone on stage and overwhelmed the audience.

Describing a powerful presence.

1

인간은 결국 홀로 태어나 홀로 가는 존재이다.

Humans are ultimately beings who are born alone and go alone.

Existential/Philosophical statement.

2

그의 시에는 홀로 남겨진 자의 고독이 잘 나타나 있다.

The solitude of one left alone is well-expressed in his poems.

Literary analysis.

3

그는 권력의 정점에서 홀로 고립되어 갔다.

He became isolated alone at the pinnacle of power.

Describing political isolation.

4

홀로 아리랑은 민족의 애환을 담고 있는 노래다.

'Holo Arirang' is a song that contains the joys and sorrows of the nation.

Cultural reference.

5

그는 시대의 어둠 속에서 홀로 등불을 밝히고 있었다.

He was lighting a lamp alone in the darkness of the era.

Metaphor for intellectual leadership.

6

진정한 예술가는 대중의 환호 속에서도 홀로 있어야 한다.

A true artist must be alone even amidst the cheers of the public.

Aesthetic/Philosophical principle.

7

그녀는 홀로 감당하기 힘든 비밀을 가슴에 품고 살았다.

She lived with a secret in her heart that was hard to bear alone.

Describing a psychological burden.

8

홀로라는 말은 때로 가장 강한 연대를 꿈꾸게 한다.

The word 'alone' sometimes makes one dream of the strongest solidarity.

Paradoxical/Rhetorical statement.

1

실존적 고독이란 타인과 함께 있어도 홀로임을 깨닫는 것이다.

Existential solitude is realizing one is alone even when with others.

High-level philosophical definition.

2

그는 문명의 이기를 뒤로하고 홀로 자연으로 돌아갔다.

He left the conveniences of civilization behind and returned alone to nature.

Describing a radical life choice.

3

작품 속에서 '홀로'는 단순한 상태가 아닌 주체적 결단으로 묘사된다.

In the work, 'alone' is depicted not as a simple state but as an independent decision.

Academic literary analysis.

4

그는 역사의 소용돌이 속에서 홀로 정의를 외쳤다.

He shouted for justice alone in the vortex of history.

Heroic/Historical narrative.

5

홀로 남겨진 섬처럼 그는 사회로부터 단절되어 있었다.

Like a deserted island, he was disconnected from society.

Complex simile with 홀로.

6

그의 음악은 홀로 있는 영혼들을 위로하는 힘이 있다.

His music has the power to comfort souls who are alone.

Describing the emotional impact of art.

7

우리는 홀로일 때 비로소 자신의 진면목을 마주하게 된다.

It is only when we are alone that we face our true selves.

Philosophical insight.

8

그는 홀로 걷는 이 길의 끝에 무엇이 있을지 묻지 않았다.

He did not ask what would be at the end of this path he walked alone.

Poetic narrative ending.

よく使う組み合わせ

홀로 서다
홀로 남다
홀로 걷다
홀로 살다
홀로 앉아
홀로 떠나다
홀로 빛나다
홀로 견디다
홀로 생각하다
홀로 웃다

よく使うフレーズ

나 홀로

— Me alone. Often used in titles or to emphasize one's solitary state.

나 홀로 집에 (Home Alone).

홀로 아리랑

— A famous song title. Refers to the solitary spirit of the Korean people.

홀로 아리랑을 부르며 눈물을 흘렸다.

홀로서기

— Standing on one's own. Achieving independence or self-reliance.

대학 졸업은 홀로서기의 시작이다.

홀로 된

— Having become alone. Often used to describe someone who has lost a spouse.

홀로 된 어머니를 모시고 살았다.

홀로 있기를 좋아하다

— To like being alone. Describes an introverted or independent personality.

그는 홀로 있기를 좋아하는 성격이다.

홀로 남겨지다

— To be left alone. Implies being abandoned or being the sole survivor.

전쟁터에 홀로 남겨진 기분이었다.

홀로 가다

— To go alone. Can mean a physical journey or a metaphorical path in life.

나는 내 길을 홀로 가겠다.

홀로 피다

— To bloom alone. Often used to describe a person's unique talent or a flower.

추운 겨울에 홀로 핀 매화.

홀로 지키다

— To guard or keep alone. Shows loyalty or persistence.

그는 끝까지 성을 홀로 지켰다.

홀로 지내다

— To spend time alone or live alone.

방학 동안 홀로 지내며 책을 읽었다.

よく混同される語

홀로 vs 혼자

The most common confusion. '혼자' is for everyday life; '홀로' is for poetry and significance.

홀로 vs 홀몸

A noun meaning 'single body'. Often used to mean not being pregnant or not having family.

홀로 vs 별로

Sounds similar but means 'not really' or 'not particularly'.

慣用句と表現

"홀로 서기"

— To stand on one's own feet. It means becoming independent and self-sufficient.

그는 서른 살에 드디어 홀로서기에 성공했다.

Common
"홀로 독불장군"

— A person who acts alone and ignores others' opinions. A 'lone general'.

그는 홀로 독불장군처럼 행동해서 팀원들과 사이가 안 좋다.

Informal/Critical
"홀로 남은 외기러기"

— A lone wild goose left behind. Refers to a person who is very lonely or has lost their partner.

그는 아내를 잃고 홀로 남은 외기러기 신세가 되었다.

Literary/Old-fashioned
"홀로 청청하다"

— To be green and fresh alone. To maintain one's integrity while others are corrupt.

모두가 변절할 때 그는 홀로 청청했다.

Literary/Archaic
"홀로 밤을 지새우다"

— To stay up all night alone. Usually implies worry or deep thought.

걱정 때문에 홀로 밤을 지새웠다.

Common
"홀로 잔을 비우다"

— To empty a glass alone. Refers to drinking alone, often due to sadness.

그는 포장마차에서 홀로 잔을 비우고 있었다.

Literary
"홀로 삭이다"

— To swallow or suppress (emotions) alone.

그는 슬픔을 홀로 삭이며 웃어 보였다.

Common
"홀로 빛나는 별"

— A star that shines alone. Refers to a person with exceptional talent who stands out.

그녀는 무대 위에서 홀로 빛나는 별 같았다.

Poetic
"홀로 짐을 지다"

— To carry a burden alone. Taking on responsibility without help.

가족의 생계를 홀로 짐 지고 있다.

Common
"홀로 아리랑"

— While a song title, it's used to describe the unique, solitary path of Korea.

우리 역사는 홀로 아리랑처럼 꿋꿋했다.

Cultural

間違えやすい

홀로 vs 혼자

Both mean 'alone'.

혼자 is casual and can be a noun. 홀로 is an adverb and is more literary/poetic.

혼자 왔어? (Casual) / 홀로 왔는가? (Formal/Dramatic)

홀로 vs 외로이

Both describe being alone.

외로이 emphasizes the feeling of loneliness (sadness). 홀로 emphasizes the state of being alone (can be neutral or strong).

그는 외로이 울었다. (He cried lonelily) / 그는 홀로 싸웠다. (He fought alone)

홀로 vs 스스로

Both imply doing something without others.

스스로 means 'by one's own initiative' or 'voluntarily'. 홀로 means 'without companions'.

스스로 공부했다. (Studied on his own initiative) / 홀로 공부했다. (Studied alone in the room)

홀로 vs 단독으로

Both mean 'alone' or 'solely'.

단독으로 is a formal, administrative term. 홀로 is an emotional, literary term.

단독으로 출마했다. (Ran for office solely) / 홀로 길을 떠났다. (Set out on a journey alone)

홀로 vs 고립되어

Both mean being by oneself.

고립되어 means being forced into isolation or cut off. 홀로 is more about the simple state or choice of being alone.

섬에 고립되었다. (Isolated on an island) / 섬에 홀로 살다. (Living alone on an island)

文型パターン

A1

N이/가 홀로 V-아요/어요.

친구가 홀로 와요.

A2

N은/는 홀로 V-(으)십니다.

아버지는 홀로 일하십니다.

B1

홀로 V-면서 N을/를 하다.

홀로 걸으면서 음악을 들어요.

B2

홀로 V-기 위해 N을/를 하다.

홀로 서기 위해 돈을 모아요.

C1

홀로 V-는 것은 N이다.

홀로 남는 것은 두려운 일이다.

C1

마치 N처럼 홀로 V-다.

마치 섬처럼 홀로 떠 있다.

C2

홀로 V-ㄹ지언정 N-지 않겠다.

홀로 죽을지언정 항복하지 않겠다.

C2

N의 N 속에서 홀로 V-다.

군중의 환호 속에서 홀로 침묵하다.

語族

名詞

홀몸 (hol-mom) - A single person or a person without relatives.
홀어미 (hol-eomi) - A widowed mother.
홀아비 (hol-abi) - A widower.

動詞

홀로서다 (hollo-seoda) - To stand alone; to be independent.

関連

혼자 (honja) - Alone (neutral).
외롭다 (oeropda) - To be lonely.
고독 (godok) - Solitude/Loneliness.
독립 (dongnip) - Independence.
단독 (dandok) - Sole/Single.

使い方

frequency

Medium-High (Very high in written/artistic Korean, medium in spoken).

よくある間違い
  • Using '홀로' for casual tasks. 나 혼자 숙제했어.

    Using '홀로' for homework sounds like you're writing an epic saga about your studies. Use '혼자' for daily chores.

  • Using '홀로' as a noun. 혼자가 편해요. / 홀로 있는 것이 편해요.

    '홀로' is an adverb. It cannot be the subject or object of a sentence on its own.

  • Confusing '홀로' with '외롭다'. 홀로 있지만 외롭지 않아요.

    '홀로' is the state of being alone; '외롭다' is the feeling of being lonely. You can be one without the other.

  • Adding '-서' to '홀로'. 홀로 길을 걸었다.

    While '혼자서' is common, '홀로서' is not a standard form. '홀로' is already a complete adverb.

  • Using '홀로' for political independence. 한국은 1945년에 독립했다.

    '홀로' is for individuals or personified objects. For countries or systems, use '독립' (independence).

ヒント

Use for Emphasis

Use '홀로' when you want to emphasize that someone did something *entirely* on their own, especially if it was difficult. It adds a heroic quality to the action.

Poetic Writing

If you are writing a poem or a song in Korean, '홀로' is almost always a better choice than '혼자' because of its rhythmic and emotional quality.

Understand 'Holloseogi'

Learn the concept of '홀로서기'. It's a key cultural term for independence. Knowing this will help you understand many Korean books and movies.

Adverb Only

Remember that '홀로' is an adverb. It needs a verb to follow it. Don't try to use it like a noun or an adjective.

Pure Korean Charm

Appreciate '홀로' as a pure Korean word. Native speakers often find these words more beautiful and expressive than Sino-Korean words.

Song Lyrics

Listen to the song 'Holo' by Lee Hi. It's a perfect example of how the word is used to describe modern solitude and self-care.

Social Context

When you see '홀로' in the news, it's often about the 'elderly living alone'. This is a serious social issue in Korea, so the tone will be respectful and concerned.

Describing Nature

Use '홀로' to describe a single element in nature, like a lone cloud or a lone tree. It makes your descriptions sound much more professional and evocative.

Contrast with 'Together'

To make '홀로' stand out, contrast it with '함께' (together) in the same sentence. '모두 함께 웃었지만, 그는 홀로 울었다.'

The 'L' Sound

The double 'L' sound in '홀로' feels like a long, solitary path. Let the sound help you remember the meaning of a long, lone journey.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of the word 'Hole'. If you are in a 'Hole', you are 'Holl-o' (alone). It's a bit of a stretch, but the 'o' sound at the end feels like a circle surrounding a single person.

視覚的連想

Imagine a single lighthouse (홀로) standing in the middle of a dark sea. The lighthouse is 'hollo' because it stands alone to guide others.

Word Web

Solitude Independence Poetry Alone Single Pure Korean Literary Strength

チャレンジ

Try to write three sentences using '홀로'. One about a star, one about a person's life goal, and one about a memory. Avoid using '혼자' for this exercise.

語源

The word '홀로' is a pure Korean (Native) word. It has been used since the Middle Korean period (15th century) in various forms like 'ᄒᆞ올로'. It is not derived from Chinese characters (Hanja).

元の意味: Its original meaning was 'singly' or 'by oneself,' emphasizing the numeric state of being one.

Koreanic language family.

文化的な背景

While 'hollo' is poetic, using it to describe someone's poverty or tragic isolation should be done with empathy, as it can highlight their lack of social support.

English speakers might find 'hollo' similar to 'solitarily' or 'all by one's lonesome,' but it's much more common in Korean than those specific English words are in English.

Lee Hi - 'Holo' (Song about self-love and solitude) Home Alone (Movie title in Korea: '나 홀로 집에') Holo Arirang (A patriotic song about the Dokdo islands standing alone in the sea)

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Travel

  • 홀로 떠나는 여행
  • 홀로 낯선 곳에서
  • 홀로 지도를 보며
  • 홀로 기차를 타다

Emotions

  • 홀로 슬퍼하다
  • 홀로 기뻐하다
  • 홀로 고민하다
  • 홀로 눈물 흘리다

Nature

  • 홀로 핀 꽃
  • 홀로 떠 있는 달
  • 홀로 서 있는 나무
  • 홀로 흐르는 강물

Independence

  • 홀로서기 연습
  • 홀로 세상을 향해
  • 홀로 결정하다
  • 홀로 책임을 지다

Literature/Art

  • 홀로 남겨진 주인공
  • 홀로 읊조리는 시
  • 홀로 그리는 그림
  • 홀로 연주하는 바이올린

会話のきっかけ

"홀로 여행해 본 적이 있나요? 어디가 가장 좋았어요?"

"홀로 있는 시간을 어떻게 보내는 것을 좋아하세요?"

"홀로서기를 할 때 가장 힘들었던 점은 무엇인가요?"

"가끔은 홀로 있고 싶을 때가 있지 않나요?"

"홀로 사는 것의 장점과 단점은 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

日記のテーマ

오늘 하루 중 홀로 있었던 시간에 대해 써보세요. 어떤 기분이 들었나요?

진정한 '홀로서기'란 무엇이라고 생각하는지 당신의 견해를 적어보세요.

만약 세상에 홀로 남겨진다면 가장 먼저 무엇을 하고 싶나요?

홀로 빛나는 별처럼, 당신이 남들과 다르게 빛나는 점은 무엇인가요?

누군가에게 도움을 받지 않고 홀로 해냈던 가장 자랑스러운 일은 무엇인가요?

よくある質問

10 問

You can, but it might sound a bit dramatic or like you're joking. For example, if you say '나 오늘 홀로 밥 먹었어,' your friends might think you're being funny or that you're very sad. Usually, '혼자' is better for friends.

No, it can be used for anything that can be 'alone.' You can use it for a single star in the sky, a single tree on a hill, or even a single thought in your mind. It's very common in nature descriptions.

'홀로이' is just a more poetic and slightly older version of '홀로.' You will see it in very old poems or very traditional songs. In modern Korean, '홀로' is much more common.

Not at all! While it can be used in sad contexts, it is also used to show strength and independence. '홀로서기' (standing alone) is generally seen as a positive and brave thing in Korea.

No, '홀로' is an adverb. You cannot say '홀로가 좋아' (Alone is good). You should say '혼자가 좋아' or '홀로 있는 것이 좋아' (Being alone is good).

Yes! In Korea, the movie 'Home Alone' is titled '나 홀로 집에' (Me Alone at Home). This is one of the most famous uses of the word.

You can say '홀로 있고 싶어요.' This sounds a bit more serious and reflective than '혼자 있고 싶어요.' It implies you need some deep time for yourself.

Usually no, because it specifically means 'one.' If a group is doing something together, you would use '우리끼리' (just us) or '단독으로' (as a single group/entity).

No, it is a 'pure Korean' word. This is why it has such a soft and natural sound to native speakers.

In a business report, '단독으로' or '독자적으로' are much better choices. '홀로' is too emotional for professional documents.

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Write a sentence about a person walking alone at night using '홀로'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'A flower bloomed alone in the field.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Use '홀로서기' in a sentence about graduating from university.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a poetic sentence about the moon using '홀로'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'He is fighting alone for the truth.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about an elderly person living alone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'I was left all alone in the room.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence using '홀로' to describe a bird.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'You must learn to enjoy being alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about a student studying alone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'He empty the glass alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about a star shining alone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'She raised her child alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about a hero standing alone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Humans are born alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about a lone tree on a mountain.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'I went on a trip alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about someone thinking alone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Don't leave me alone.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence about a lighthouse using '홀로'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Pronounce '홀로' clearly.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I am alone' in a poetic way.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Ask 'Are you alone?' formally.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a single star in the sky using '홀로'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I want to stand on my own' (become independent).

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain the difference between '혼자' and '홀로' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a short story about a person who traveled alone.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Don't leave me alone' dramatically.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe a lone tree on a hill.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I studied alone all night' formally.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Use '홀로' in a sentence about a secret.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'A bird is flying alone'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Express that you enjoy being alone.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'He fought alone for justice'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The moon is alone in the sky'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Use '홀로' to describe a writer's work.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I was left alone in the dark'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'She raised her family alone'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The flower bloomed alone'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I will go my way alone'.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to the word: '홀로'. Is it 'hollo' or 'honja'?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '그는 홀로 앉아 있다.' Who is alone?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the phrase: '홀로서기'. Does it mean 'falling' or 'independence'?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the song lyric: '홀로 남은 방'. What is left alone?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the news: '홀로 사는 노인'. Who is the news about?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '별이 홀로 빛난다.' What is the star doing?

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listening

Listen to the sentence: '나를 홀로 두지 마.' Is it a request or a command?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '그는 홀로 여행을 떠났다.' Did he go with friends?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '홀로 있는 시간이 필요해.' What does the speaker need?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '그녀는 홀로 아이를 키웠다.' What did she do?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '홀로 아리랑을 부르자.' What are they singing?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '그는 홀로 성을 지켰다.' What did he guard?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '인간은 홀로 태어난다.' Is this a scientific or philosophical statement?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the word: '홀로이'. Is it modern or poetic?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '홀로 남겨진 기분이야.' How does the speaker feel?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:

/ 200 correct

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