a one off case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a one off case" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or event that is unique and unlikely to happen again. Example: "The incident was a one off case, and we do not expect it to occur in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yet the Government insists that this was a one-off case and has refused so far to relent on their myopic stance.

Independent

It was a one-off case".

Independent

After all, this is hardly a one-off case.

The New Yorker

The seven-month bombing campaign over Libya was a one-off case, the institute said.

The Guardian

Mr Hinchliff told the inquest: "This is not a one-off case and it needs bringing to the public's attention".

Independent

Well yes, Greece has been threatened with deep EU interference in its finances, but that is a one-off case.

The Economist

Everyone thought they were a one-off case, then you realise it's a problem across the board".

The Guardian

"It's a victory for both sides because the parties get to go ahead with the merger and the Justice Department gets to go to the public and say, 'We've protected you from the anti-competitive possibilities.' " But Professor Hovenkamp cautioned against looking at the settlement as more than a one-off case.

The New York Times

The companies are now likely to face a barrage of compensation suits from angry customers claiming, quite rightly, that they were overcharged for everything from anti-depressants to contraceptives.Apologists may try to paint this as a one-off case, but that seems unlikely.

The Economist

TrueCar says there had been no hiding of the fact that the model concerned might no longer be available, and thus no question of "bait-and-switch"; that this was a one-off case and that TrueCar has had few complaints so far.

The Economist

"Whilst it might just have been a one-off case of a man using a lie to get a woman into bed," James continues, dismayed, "I have since learned that this is his modus operandi …" James's own modus operandi for seducing the reader is well established (his books include the bestselling Affluenza).

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a one off case", ensure that the context clearly indicates the event is truly unique and unlikely to repeat. Avoid using it for situations that are merely infrequent but could reasonably occur again.

Common error

Avoid using "a one off case" when the situation is simply rare or unusual, but not entirely unique. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility; consider alternatives like "uncommon instance" or "rare occurrence" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a one off case" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, typically describing it as unique or isolated. The phrase emphasizes the singularity of the event, indicating it is not part of a pattern. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a one off case" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a unique and isolated incident. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English. While versatile, it's essential to ensure the context warrants the assertion of uniqueness, and more precise language might be preferable in very formal settings. Since examples are missing, the phrase's frequency and typical contexts are difficult to assess definitively. Alternative phrases like ""an isolated incident"" or "a unique occurrence" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an isolated incident

Emphasizes the singularity and separation of the event from others.

a unique occurrence

Highlights the distinct and unusual nature of the event.

a singular event

Focuses on the exceptional and rare quality of the case.

an exceptional instance

Underscores that the event is an outlier compared to typical situations.

a rare situation

Indicates the infrequency and uncommon nature of the event.

an isolated example

Stresses the lack of connection or pattern with other instances.

a non-recurring event

Clarifies that the event is not expected to happen again.

a solitary case

Highlights the uniqueness and lack of similar events.

an unprecedented situation

Emphasizes the complete novelty and lack of prior parallels.

an atypical instance

Suggests that the case deviates from the standard or norm.

FAQs

What does "a one off case" mean?

The phrase "a one off case" refers to a situation or event that is unique, isolated, and not expected to happen again. It emphasizes the singularity and lack of recurrence of a particular instance.

How to use "a one off case" in a sentence?

You can use "a one off case" to describe incidents that are exceptional and not part of a pattern. For example, "The company assured us that the data breach was "an isolated incident" and a one off case."

What can I say instead of "a one off case"?

You can use alternatives like ""an isolated incident"", "a unique occurrence", or "a rare situation" depending on the context.

Is "a one off case" formal or informal?

The phrase "a one off case" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider using more precise or technical language if available.