a one-time issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a one-time issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or situation that is not expected to occur again in the future. Example: "The software glitch was a one-time issue that has since been resolved, so users should not experience it again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

This was a one-time issue, but it certainly got us off on the wrong foot with regard to our NewsGator experience.

TechCrunch

But some outside experts had scathing words for the Labor Department, and others described the data problem as not a one-time issue but a symptom of a chronic lack of money for one of the most critical functions of the government.

The New York Times

"This is not a one-time issue we discuss over elections.

The Guardian

"The North Korean nuclear weapons [programme] is a scary problem, but it is a one-time issue; the more frightening problem is what would happen afterwards," he declared.

The Guardian

"The North Korean nuclear weapons [programme] is a scary problem, but it is a one-time issue; the more frightening problem is what would happen afterwards," he says.

The Guardian

He said airline computer systems are complex and Thursday's problem might be a one-time issue, but the repeated failures are not only embarrassing for United, they "undermine trust in the airline" and "demoralise employees".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"It's not a one-time diversity issue," Ms. Santomero added.

The New York Times - Arts

They don't issue a one-time set of instructions that produces a predetermined result.

BBC

The legislation authorizes Mr. Bush to issue a "one-time stay," but it does not specify what, precisely, he is staying, to whom he would issue the stay or what power he has to enforce it.

The New York Times

The Power to Influence In death penalty cases, Texas governors have the right to issue a one-time, 30-day reprieve from execution (which Mr. Perry rarely exercises).

The New York Times

Almost a week after the feeding tube of a brain-damaged woman was removed, the State House of Representatives passed a bill that would allow the governor to issue a "one-time stay in certain cases" involving the starvation of people in vegetative states.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a one-time issue", clearly state what steps have been taken to prevent it from happening again. This reinforces that it is indeed a unique occurrence and not indicative of a systemic problem.

Common error

Avoid downplaying the severity of an issue simply because it's described as "a one-time issue". Address its impact and any lessons learned, even if it's not expected to recur. Ignoring the underlying causes entirely can imply lack of responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a one-time issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a problem or concern that is not expected to happen again. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a one-time issue" is a commonly used phrase to describe an isolated problem or event that is not expected to recur. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, it's important to acknowledge the impact of the issue, even if it is not ongoing, and to communicate the steps taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Alternatives such as "an isolated incident" or "a singular occurrence" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. While effective for conveying the non-recurring nature of a problem, it’s crucial to avoid downplaying its significance or implying a lack of responsibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an isolated incident

Replaces "issue" with "incident", emphasizing the singular and contained nature of the event.

a singular occurrence

Substitutes "one-time" with "singular" and "issue" with "occurrence", highlighting the uniqueness of the event.

a non-recurring problem

Emphasizes that the problem is not expected to happen again.

a unique situation

Replaces "issue" with "situation", suggesting a specific and unusual set of circumstances.

a one-off event

Uses "one-off" to convey the single and isolated nature of the event.

an exceptional case

Highlights that the issue is an exception to the norm.

a freak event

Suggests that the event was very unusual and unexpected.

a solitary instance

Focuses on the fact that the event happened only once.

a transient matter

Implies that the issue is temporary and not likely to persist.

a passing concern

Suggests that the issue is not significant or long-lasting.

FAQs

How can I use "a one-time issue" in a sentence?

"A one-time issue" describes something that happened only once and is not expected to repeat. Example: "The delayed shipment was "a one-time issue" due to unforeseen circumstances."

What's a good alternative to "a one-time issue"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a one-time issue" include "an isolated incident", "a singular occurrence", or "a non-recurring problem".

Is it appropriate to use "a one-time issue" in a formal report?

Yes, "a one-time issue" is acceptable in formal reports when accurately describing an isolated event. However, ensure the context and surrounding language maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "a one-time issue" and "an ongoing problem"?

"A one-time issue" refers to a problem that occurred only once, while "an ongoing problem" indicates a recurring or persistent issue. The key difference is the expectation of recurrence.