In a single line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In a single line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to specify that something should be expressed or written in one continuous line without breaks. Example: "Please summarize your thoughts in a single line for clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In a single line: no longer would it be a felony to breach a contract.

The Guardian - Tech

In a single line of evolution, Su Song's clock therefore united the concept of the clepsydra and the mechanical clock into one device run by mechanics and hydraulics.

Wikipedia

The 18 players sat in a single line, facing the conductor's podium.

The Guardian - Arts

All three are being pursued in a single line of research at Advanced Cell Technology.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the gallery's bare rooms, the paintings hang in a single line.

The Economist

Our group of five crept toward the river in a single line.

The New York Times - Travel

Schine writes with the speed and punch of a seasoned comic, conveying character in a single line of dialogue.

The New Yorker

Otherwise, we didn't wait in a single line during the entire check-in, security and boarding procedures.

The New York Times

The British government meanwhile unsuccessfully pressurised Aziz to testify against Galloway - a scandal which Mawer dismisses in a single line on the basis of FCO "assurances".

The Guardian - Opinion

Unlike the red chips, China Unicom is in a single line of business, with cellular and paging franchises that have a measurable value.

The New York Times

However, beneath the pathos and irony, they are quietly becoming fabulous lyricists, able to set a scene in a single line.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "In a single line" when you want to emphasize both brevity and a clear, direct manner of expression or arrangement.

Common error

Avoid using "In a single line" when summarizing multifaceted concepts where simplification might lead to inaccuracy or misunderstanding. Opt for more detailed explanations to maintain precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In a single line" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by specifying the manner or extent of an action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts. Examples in Ludwig show its versatility in describing both physical arrangements and concise expressions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "In a single line" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize brevity and directness in both communication and physical arrangements. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While it's effective for highlighting conciseness, avoid overusing it in situations where simplification might compromise accuracy. Consider alternatives like "in one sentence" or "concisely put" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In one sentence

Directly relates to brevity in written expression, but does not encompass other contexts like physical arrangements.

Concisely put

Focuses solely on brevity, omitting the notion of physical or sequential arrangement.

Succinctly stated

Similar to 'concisely put', focusing on the manner of expression rather than a physical line.

In brief

Highlights brevity but lacks the directional aspect implied by "line".

In a nutshell

Emphasizes a compact summary, diverging from the linear implication.

In a linear fashion

Emphasizes the ordered and sequential nature, but it's more formal and lacks the conciseness element.

One after the other

Focuses on sequence and succession, missing the conciseness aspect.

In succession

Similar to 'one after the other', lacking emphasis on brevity or conciseness.

In serial order

Highlights a sequence but does not convey conciseness or simplicity.

One by one

Stresses individual elements in sequence, differing from the holistic sense of a single line.

FAQs

How can I use "In a single line" in a sentence?

You can use "In a single line" to describe something brief and direct, like "He summarized the entire plot "in a single line"." It can also describe physical arrangements.

What can I say instead of "In a single line"?

Alternatives include "in one sentence", "concisely put", or "in brief", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "In a single line"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize both the brevity and the directness of an expression or the arrangement of objects. For example describing a short and succinct explanation or things arranged physically.

What does "In a single line" imply about the information presented?

It implies that the information is presented in a very concise and straightforward manner, without unnecessary details or complexity. It also can imply things are arranged in a linear order.