single-handedly
UK: ˌsɪŋɡlˈhændɪdli | US: ˌsɪŋɡlˈhændɪdli
adv. done by one person alone, without help from others
adv. in a manner demonstrating individual effort or control
The word combines "single" (from Latin singulus, meaning "one" or "alone") and "hand" (Old English hand, referring to physical action or agency). The suffix "-edly" transforms the adjective "single-handed" into an adverb, emphasizing solo execution. Historically, "single-handed" described tasks performed with one hand (e.g., in combat), later evolving metaphorically to denote independent effort.
She single-handedly organized the entire conference.
The scientist single-handedly developed the groundbreaking theory.
He managed the project single-handedly despite the challenges.
The artist painted the mural single-handedly over three months.
They praised her for single-handedly rescuing the stranded hikers.