a single

USAGE SUMMARY

"a single" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to an individual item or person. For example, "A single mistake can have serious consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A single thing, a single life".

The New York Times - Arts

A single tear appears.

The New Yorker

A single blue icicle.

The New York Times - Food

A single 35-mm.

The New Yorker

Not a single thing".

The New York Times

But what a single.

The New Yorker

Rasmus drilled a single.

The New York Times - Sports

Not a single one.

The New York Times

A single shot.

The New York Times

I'm a single woman".

The New York Times

A single glove.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single", ensure that the noun it modifies is countable. It is used to emphasize the uniqueness or isolation of that noun.

Common error

Avoid using "a single" with uncountable nouns. For example, it is incorrect to say "a single water"; instead, use "a drop of water" or "a single body of water".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single" functions as a determiner and adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that there is only one of that noun. Ludwig AI examples show its use in various contexts to emphasize singularity or uniqueness, consistent with its grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a single" serves to emphasize the singularity or uniqueness of a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Common contexts include News & Media, Wiki, and Science. It is crucial to use it correctly with countable nouns, avoiding misuse with uncountable ones. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively employ "a single" to enhance clarity and precision in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one individual

Replaces 'a single' with a more formal emphasis on the individual nature of something.

just one

Emphasizes the small quantity or uniqueness of something.

a solitary

Focuses on the isolation or lack of companionship.

a unique

Highlights the distinctiveness and special character of something.

a lone

Implies being alone or without support.

a particular

Emphasizes a specific instance or item.

an isolated

Highlights the separation or detachment of something.

a certain

Refers to a specific but perhaps not clearly identified item.

a specific

Emphasizes precision and exactness.

a respective

Indicates individuality in relation to a group.

FAQs

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

Use "a single" to emphasize that there is only one of something. For example, "Not "a single person" came to the meeting" or "A single tear appeared on her cheek".

What words are similar to "a single"?

Synonyms include phrases like "just one", "a lone", or "a solitary", which all emphasize the idea of uniqueness or isolation.

Is it correct to say "a single ones"?

No, it is incorrect. The correct phrase is "a single one". "Ones" is plural, while "a single" implies singularity.

What is the difference between "a single" and "every single"?

"A single" refers to one individual item or instance, while "every single" emphasizes that all items or instances are being considered, without exception.