a question of one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of one" is not commonly used in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could be used in discussions about individual perspectives or decisions, but it requires additional context to convey a clear meaning. Example: "In this debate, it's really a question of one person's opinion versus another's."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

People like Anatoli Boukreev (the much maligned guide but actual hero of the 1996 expedition, screw you Jon Krakauer (author)) have operated up there for more time than actually humanly possible without oxygen or sleep, but even for super trained mountain men it's a question of one wrong step (Boukreev died a year later from such a mistake).

Huffington Post

"It is not a question of one person".

The New York Times

"This is not a question of one nation or two nations.

The Guardian

This is not a question of one being right and the other wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

But to Mr. McGowan, it is not a question of one war being better or worse.

The New York Times

"We will discuss it with the owners, as it's a question of one race or the other.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

'Despite the apparent breakthrough, it would be wrong to assume that in the case of groups like al-Qaeda it is a question of just one throw of the dice,' one source said.

The Guardian

"We ask a question of how one may come to a decision having listened to one side," said Bagdat Kozhakhmetov, the ministry spokesman, news agencies reported.

The New York Times

"Why should it be a question of focusing on one or the other?" said Alex Rondos, Mr. Papandreou's chief adviser.

The New York Times

But observant Jews point out that the bustle returns at sundown on Saturdays and that it is merely a question of substituting one shopping day for another.

The New York Times

It is not a question of denuding one great and old European museum, so much as of completing another great and new one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a question of one" when you specifically want to emphasize that the issue boils down to a single factor, choice, or individual, rather than a broader set of considerations.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of one" when discussing multiple factors or a complex situation with many variables. It is best used when simplifying an issue to its core singular element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of one" typically functions as a modifier or descriptor, narrowing down a broader issue to a singular element. It signifies that the core of the matter lies in a single aspect, individual, or decision, as demonstrated in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of one" is a phrase used to emphasize a singular element or aspect within a broader context. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is not extremely common and needs a clearly defined context for maximum effectiveness. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, it serves to highlight the importance of a single factor in a complex situation. Alternatives such as "a matter of a single" or "an issue of individuality" can provide similar emphasis with potentially greater clarity. It's essential to avoid using the phrase when discussing multifaceted issues to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of a single

Emphasizes the singular aspect, replacing "question" with "matter" and using "single" for "one".

an issue of individuality

Shifts the focus to the concept of individuality, highlighting a personal perspective.

a problem of the individual

Frames it as a problem related to a single person or entity.

a choice involving one

Highlights the element of choice or decision-making focused on a single entity.

a decision for someone alone

Emphasizes that the decision is isolated to one person.

a concern of a solitary

Focuses on the aspect of loneliness or the unique position of one person.

a situation affecting only one

Highlights that the situation is confined to only one entity.

something pertaining to a single entity

Replaces 'question' with a more general term and emphasizes that it is linked with a singular thing.

a factor related to a sole person

Highlights the singular and individual aspect of the person in question.

an aspect concerning an individual case

Emphasizes the singular nature of the case or situation under discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "a question of one" in a sentence?

Use "a question of one" to emphasize that an issue, problem, or choice boils down to a single aspect or individual. For example: "Ultimately, it's "a question of one" person's integrity."

What's a similar phrase to "a question of one"?

Similar phrases include "a matter of a single", "an issue of individuality", or "a problem of the individual", which all highlight a singular aspect or focus.

Is "a question of one" grammatically correct?

While not extremely common, "a question of one" is grammatically acceptable. It's essential to use it in contexts where you genuinely want to emphasize a singular element or aspect.

When is it appropriate to use "a question of one"?

It's appropriate to use "a question of one" when you want to highlight that something hinges on a single element, choice, or individual. For example, "The success of the project became "a question of one" key decision."