je suis seul
The English phrase "I am alone" is translated into French as je suis seul.
The phrase is used to state that there is no other person with you. Note that the word seul can also mean "only" (single or sole) depending on the context in which it is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the adjective must change based on the gender of the speaker. Use je suis seul if you are male, but if the speaker is female, the adjective must change to je suis seule.
Did you know?
- In French, the concept of being alone can be expressed as seul or solitaire. While seul often describes a temporary state, solitaire describes a personality trait or a chosen lifestyle.
- The French word seul is a linguistic relative of the English word 'solo'. While seul was inherited directly from Latin, 'solo' was borrowed later from Italian.
Examples in context
- J’entends des voix quand je suis seul.I hear voices when I am alone.This sentence shows how to use je suis seul when describing hearing voices.Tatoeba #10705229 by AutoBot, translation #10705225 by AutoBot
- Le directeur est sorti, je suis seul(e) dans le bureau.The manager has left, I am alone in the office.
- Après le déménagement, je me sens seul(e) dans cette nouvelle ville.After the move, I feel alone in this new city.
- Les autres sont partis en vacances, je suis tout seul(e) chez moi.The others went on vacation, I am all alone at home.
- Je suis seul à la maison.I am alone at home.
- Ne t'inquiète pas, je suis seul ici.Don't worry, I am alone here.
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are talking on the phone.
- HugoEst-ce que tu es avec des amis ?Are you with some friends?
- EmmaNon, je suis seul dans mon salon.No, I am alone in my living room.
- HugoTu ne t'ennuies pas, Hugo ?Aren't you bored, Hugo?
- EmmaNon, j'aime être tranquille.No, I like being peaceful.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries je, seul, suis, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
