a plus one

USAGE SUMMARY

"a plus one" is a correct phrase in written English.
In informal settings, you can use it to refer to someone who is accompanying another person to an event. For example, "I'm bringing a plus one to the party this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

That the actresses and characters are Hispanic is a "plus one" that sends a strong message to American society that we are an integral part of this country.

Huffington Post

Each winner will receive a spot with a plus one on Luke's guest list for his epic party on Saturday, October 22nd in New York City at Marquee.

Huffington Post

Relationship status: Puts down a plus one on a wedding invitation for the extra plate of food.

Huffington Post

A plus one on your Google+ page is not just a plus; it shows that a real person is interested in your variety.

WikiHow

Shauna, on the phone with a club promoter: "I need to add a plus one at the club on Friday night.

Huffington Post

I texted the first thing that entered my mind: Do you need a plus one?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Even though I had room for a plus-one on my pass, I couldn't find anyone to go with me on such last minute notice.

Vice

Offering a Plus-One, With a Specific One in Mind This summer I am attending a destination wedding in an expensive summer vacation spot.

The New York Times

That core programming could be multiplexed, cheaply, on a plus-one-hour basis to create something like near-video-on demand.

The Guardian

He had four shots on goal and was a plus-one.

Los Angeles Times

"Once we were there, it was fine," said a Google contractor who works on site and scored a plus-one.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "accompanying guest" instead of the more casual "a plus one".

Common error

Do not assume you have "a plus one" unless the invitation explicitly states it. Always confirm with the host to avoid awkward situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plus one" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an adjective modifying another noun (e.g., "a plus one invitation"). This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies it as a correct and common phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plus one" is a commonly used phrase indicating that an invitee is permitted to bring an additional guest to an event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and versatile, fitting comfortably in informal and, occasionally, more formal settings. While it's generally acceptable, being mindful of context and usage—especially concerning assumptions about invitations—is key. Consider alternative phrases like "additional guest" or "accompanying person" for clarity. The phrase is most frequent in news and media, with a good source authority and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plus-one companion

A more verbose version that still contains the "plus-one" element.

additional guest

Focuses on the guest aspect, replacing the mathematical connotation of "plus".

added attendee

Highlights that the attendee has been added to the list

accompanying person

Emphasizes the act of accompanying, suitable for formal contexts.

invited companion

Highlights the invitation aspect and the role as a companion.

extra invitee

Directly refers to someone additionally invited to an event.

partner in attendance

Formal and emphasizes their presence at the event.

date for the event

Focuses on the event and the person as a date.

significant other

Refers to a romantic partner who accompanies you.

guest of honor

While close in meaning, this focuses on the person being the main guest and not necessarily an "additional guest"

FAQs

How to use "a plus one" in a sentence?

You can use "a plus one" to indicate an accompanying guest. For example, "Each winner will receive a spot with "a plus one" on Luke's guest list."

What can I say instead of "a plus one"?

Alternatives include "additional guest", "accompanying person", or "invited companion" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to ask for "a plus one"?

It is generally appropriate to ask for "a plus one" if you are in a long-term relationship or if the invitation explicitly offers one. However, always be considerate of the host's budget and space limitations.

What does it mean if an invitation doesn't include "a plus one"?

If an invitation does not mention "a plus one", it typically means the invitation is only for the person named. Assuming you can bring someone could be impolite.