Definition
形单影只 is a four-character idiom that literally means 'a single form, a solitary shadow' — a vivid image of being completely alone. It describes a state of extreme loneliness, often used for someone who has no friends, family, or companions. Unlike the more common 孤独 (gūdú, 'lonely'), this idiom carries a stronger visual and emotional weight, typically appearing in literary or formal contexts.
f.e.
extremely lonelysolitary (idiom)
Examples
- ，形单影只，。Tā dúzì yī rén zài yìxiāng, xíng chán, shífēn qīliáng.He was alone in a foreign land, solitary and utterly desolate.
- ，形单影只，。Zìcóng lǎobàn qùshì hòu, lǎorén biàn xíng chán, hěn shǎo chūmén.After his spouse passed away, the old man became extremely lonely and rarely went out.
- ，形单影只，。Zài rènao de jiérì lǐ, tā fǎn'ér juéde xíng chán, yǔ zhōuwéi gégébùrù.During the lively festival, he instead felt solitary and out of place with his surroundings.
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