Stand-Alone vs Stand Alone: A Simple Guide

Stand-Alone vs Stand Alone

Sometimes, words can be tricky because they sound the same but have different meanings when written. “Stand-alone” and “stand alone” are like that. Let’s see how they are different and how we can use them.

History

“Stand-alone” is a compound word, which means two words are joined together to make one new word. It became popular as technology grew, especially when talking about computers and gadgets. “Stand alone,” on the other hand, is not a compound word. It’s used when you want to talk about something or someone being by itself or without anyone else.

How to Use Them

Stand-Alone

“Stand-alone” is an adjective. This means it describes a noun, which is a person, place, or thing. You use “stand-alone” when saying something does not need help or is complete by itself.

• This is a stand-alone game. You don’t need the internet to play it.
• The printer is a stand-alone device; it does not need a computer.
• The company built a stand-alone building outside the city.
• A stand-alone movie does not have a sequel.
• She bought a stand-alone mixer for the cake shop.

Stand Alone

“Stand alone” is a verb phrase, meaning it describes an action. You use it when talking about something or someone being separate from others.

• A large tree can stand alone in the field.
• He is confident enough to stand alone on his decision.
• The mountain can stand alone and still look beautiful.
• You must stand alone sometimes and solve the problem.
• The star was so bright it could stand alone in the sky.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here’s an easy way to remember: If you can put “together” right after the words and it makes sense, you use “stand-alone.” If it makes sense to say “by itself” or “without help” after, you use “stand alone.”

Summary

Use stand-alone when you describe something that is complete by itself. Use stand alone when talking about something being separate or by itself.