separately

[ sep-er-it-lee ]

adverb

1. in such a way as to be physically detached, disconnected, or disjoined:

   The note cards come in a boxed set of six or can be sold separately.

   We wrapped each part of the gift separately and put them all in the basket.

2. independently or distinctly, rather than as parts or aspects of one idea, event, process, problem, etc.:

   By the 17th century, “natural philosophy” (today called “natural science”) was beginning to be considered separately from philosophy in general.

   Until now, these two communities have been working separately despite their similar interests.

3. not at the same time or not in the same place; apart in space or time:

   They’ve been married for 10 years but live separately.

   The two arrived separately at the Ritz Hotel for the movie star’s 50th birthday party.

4. not in a way that is shared; individually:

   They should each be paid separately for the work they have done.

Other Words From

• un·sep·a·rate·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of separately¹

First recorded in 1550–60; separate ( def ) + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

Separately, Ms O'Neill apologised for attending senior republican Bobby Storey's funeral during lockdown, when she was deputy first minister.

From BBC

He said he believed some restructuring is needed and there are too many “silos” operating separately.

From Los Angeles Times

Together or separately, they co-wrote “Wide Open Heart,” “I’ll Pay the Price,” “California Sky,” “I Spell Love” and “Hand Me Down Heart” with Yoakam.

From Los Angeles Times

Separately Donald Shea, a Hollywood stuntman, and Gary Hinman, an acquaintance of the group, were killed by members of the Manson Family.

From BBC

Separately, the FBI said it had become involved in the investigation into the Spirit shooting.

From BBC

Related Words

• independently
• personally
• solely