a single authoritative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single authoritative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a singular source or entity that holds the ultimate power or control over a particular subject or area. Example: "The committee decided to consult a single authoritative source to ensure the accuracy of the information presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Intervention is choreographed by a single authoritative figure prepared to stay five weeks for peace.

The New York Times

But the party still lacks credible policies and a single authoritative leader.

The Economist

Dolan never replaced Walsh, leaving the front office with an assortment of bright minds, but without a single, authoritative leader.

The New York Times - Sports

Another, "don't repeat yourself", recommends distilling each design decision into a single authoritative piece of code or data rather than duplicating it at the cost of clarity.

The Guardian - Tech

The answer to the question, we're told, is that no one speaks for Islam — it is too vast and diverse, spreading across too many countries and cultures, to have a single, authoritative voice.

The New York Times - Arts

Is it nearly impossible to take a single authoritative snapshot of New York City's population, to freeze it in place, to discover and list all the different people who live here.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

In the absence of any single, authoritative voice calling for shark conservation, environmental groups have begun to enlist celebrities to fill the void.

Huffington Post

In the simplest case, where overlap does not exist and there is a clear single authoritative reference ontology, we simply import that class with the original URI maintained, e.g. BFO.

Bioinformatics

Spirituality presents a problem for the nurse researcher as it is a complex and diverse phenomenon with no single authoritative definition [ 7].

BMC Nursing

Its single authoritative point of view is an excellent complement to the sweep of "The Pearl".

The New York Times - Food

Considerable effort has been put into collecting and collating interaction data that might be used to create PKNs for logical or kinetic modeling, but there exists no single authoritative source: information is dispersed across a multiplicity of databases that vary with respect to scope and the type of information they represent [ 17].

BMC Systems Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to emphasize the importance of having one clear, reliable source of information or decision-making, particularly in complex situations.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "a single authoritative" source without cross-validation, as even authoritative sources can have biases or limitations. Always consider multiple perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single authoritative" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes something as being unique and having recognized authority, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single authoritative" is an adjective phrase used to describe a unique and reliable source of information or authority. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts and implies a high degree of trustworthiness and expertise. While identifying such a source can be valuable for clarity and decision-making, it's important to remain critical and consider diverse perspectives to avoid biases or limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one authoritative

Omits "single" for brevity while retaining the core meaning of a unique authoritative source.

sole authoritative

Replaces "single" with "sole" to emphasize uniqueness and exclusivity.

a definitive authority

Substitutes "authoritative" with "definitive authority" highlighting the conclusive nature of the source.

a primary authoritative

Implies a source of major although not exclusive authority.

the sole authority

Emphasizes exclusivity and finality in decision-making or information.

a unique authoritative

Focuses on the distinctiveness of the authoritative entity or source.

a reliable singular

Highlights reliability and uniqueness, though less conventional.

a conclusive voice

Emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of the source's pronouncements.

a leading expert

Focuses on expertise rather than explicit authority.

a trusted singular

Indicates a source that is both reliable and unique, though less common.

FAQs

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

Use "a single authoritative" to refer to a unique and reliable source of information or decision-making. For example, "The company needed "a single authoritative" guideline for all employees to follow."

What's a good substitute for "a single authoritative"?

Alternatives include "sole authoritative", "one authoritative", or "definitive authority" depending on the specific context you're using it in.

Is it better to have multiple sources or "a single authoritative" one?

While multiple sources can offer diverse perspectives, "a single authoritative" source is useful when you need a clear, reliable point of reference, particularly when making a decision. In research it is better to cross-validate any single authority with other sources.

What does "a single authoritative" source imply?

It implies a source that is unique, reliable, and has the power or expertise to provide definitive information or guidance. It suggests the absence of conflicting sources or interpretations.