single vs. lonely

[Andrei]

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #110 "Synonyms for alone and lonesome", question 3

Joan's husband abandoned her unexpectedly, leaving her ......... and uncertain about the future.

(a) single
(b) lonely
(c) alone
(d) unaccompanied

Synonyms Lesson, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #110 "Synonyms for alone and lonesome", answer 3

Joan's husband abandoned her unexpectedly, leaving her lonely and uncertain about the future.

Correct answer: (b) lonely

Your answer was: incorrect
Joan's husband abandoned her unexpectedly, leaving her single and uncertain about the future.
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Hi,
Could you explain me please why we can't use single here?

[Alan]

Hi Andrei,

'Single' suggests 'being one' but if you want to add the idea of wishing you were with someone (and this is the sense you want here), you need to use the adjective 'lonely'.

Alan
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[Kitosdad]

Surely alone would have been more apt.

If you are alone, you are certain to be lonely.
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