a single chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single chance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to having only one opportunity to do something. Example: "In life, we often only get a single chance to make a lasting impression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

There was not a single chance.

The New York Times

"Israel didn't have a single chance.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is not a single chance of having such a high-level target here," he said.

The New York Times

The exaggeration was complete when he said Chelsea had not even managed a single chance in the first half.

The Guardian - Sport

They preyed on the weak French lineout and, despite their own indiscipline, prevented France from creating a single chance.

The Guardian - Sport

If you don't create a single chance against 10 men in 49 minutes then you can't be champions," he decreed.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It represents a single, final chance for Iraq.

The New York Times

Not a single real chance for either side during the next 45 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

But sure, West Ham, who did not create a single noteworthy chance against a United side with Michael Carrick in central defence, have no need for him.

The Guardian - Sport

He gave the world a single final chance, and when it failed him he longed only to immerse himself in water.

The Guardian - Books

That left Liverpool with a different type of challenge and the most disappointing part for Jürgen Klopp must be that they did not have the wit or creativity to conjure up a single clear chance.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single chance" when you want to emphasize the uniqueness or scarcity of an opportunity. It conveys that there are no second chances, heightening the stakes.

Common error

Don't overuse "a single chance" when multiple opportunities exist. Overstating the scarcity can diminish your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single chance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement in a sentence. It denotes a unique or solitary opportunity, often emphasizing the limited nature of the occasion. Ludwig AI confirms this, with numerous examples illustrating its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

23%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single chance" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that denotes a unique or solitary opportunity. Ludwig AI's analysis, combined with the gathered examples, suggests it's suitable for various contexts, including News & Media and scientific writing. Its primary function is to emphasize the importance or urgency of a situation, making it clear that only one opportunity exists. Remember that overuse of the phrase might diminish its impact, and consider using alternatives like "one opportunity" or "a unique opportunity" to maintain variety in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one opportunity

Focuses on the existence of only one opportunity, simplifying the expression.

a unique opportunity

Emphasizes the special and possibly unrepeatable nature of the chance.

a solitary opportunity

Highlights the isolation and uniqueness of the occasion.

only one shot

An idiomatic expression indicating limited attempts.

a final opportunity

Indicates that this chance is the last available.

a slim chance

Refers to a small or improbable opportunity.

a golden opportunity

Highlights the value and potential benefits of the chance.

a rare opportunity

Stresses the infrequency with which such a chance occurs.

a last-ditch effort

Emphasizes the desperation and finality of the attempt.

the only possibility

Highlights the exclusivity and lack of alternatives.

FAQs

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

Use "a single chance" to emphasize the uniqueness or finality of an opportunity. For example, "He knew this was "a single chance" to prove himself".

What phrases are similar to "a single chance"?

Similar phrases include "one opportunity", "a unique opportunity", or "only one shot", all emphasizing the limited nature of the opportunity.

Is it better to say "a single chance" or "one chance"?

Both "a single chance" and "one chance" are grammatically correct and convey essentially the same meaning. The choice depends on the desired emphasis or stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "a single chance" and "a last chance"?

"A single chance" implies that there is only one opportunity. "A last chance" implies that previous opportunities existed, but this is the final one available.