a single change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single change" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to one specific alteration or modification in a context where changes are being discussed. Example: "Implementing a single change in the software can significantly improve its performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can't remember a single change".

The New York Times

In a bag she carried a single change of clothes.

The Guardian

Nine months of styling, singing and dancing lessons culminated in a single, Change Your Mind.

The Guardian

If human beings were identical, a single change in the environment could wipe out the race.

The New Yorker

Speaking of the battery, Fitbit promises five days of battery life on a single change.

The Guardian - Tech

Obamacare is not a single change that will be rolled out, celebrated and then forgotten.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mrs. Smith escaped with a few important papers and a single change of clothes.

The New York Times

These tables must be regularly updated, a process that can take minutes for a single change.

MIT Technology Review

Why does a single change of tone in my pale skin make me feel more confident?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But more than a year later, the company had not instituted a single change.

Harvard Business Review

He packed a single change of pants, in a small bag.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single change", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being changed to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "a single change improved it", say "a single change to the algorithm improved it."

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the importance of "a single change". While it might be significant, framing it as a complete solution without supporting evidence can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single change" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a solitary alteration or modification, as evidenced by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single change" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the singular nature of an alteration, often implying its significant impact. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news, science, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the element that undergoes the change to avoid confusion. Although it is acceptable in different registers, avoiding exaggeration of its impact is important to maintain credibility. Related phrases like "one alteration" or "a solitary modification" can provide alternative ways to express the concept, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one alteration

Focuses on the act of altering something, emphasizing the process of modification rather than the result.

a solitary modification

Emphasizes the isolated nature of the change, highlighting that it's the only one.

a specific alteration

This emphasizes that the change is precisely defined and targeted.

a unique adjustment

Suggests the change is specifically tailored or uncommon.

a lone revision

Implies a written or formal alteration, often related to documents or plans.

a simple amendment

Conveys the change is straightforward and easy to implement, usually related to rules or laws.

one instance of variation

Highlights the change as a form of divergence or difference from a standard.

an isolated adjustment

Highlights the fact that the adjustment is independent or separated from other changes.

a singular transformation

Implies the change is dramatic and impactful, resulting in a significant difference.

a particular shift

Indicates a change in direction or focus, usually not a physical alteration.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single change" to emphasize that only one alteration was made. For instance, "A single change in the code drastically improved performance."

What are some alternatives to saying "a single change"?

Alternatives include phrases like "one alteration", "a solitary modification", or "a unique adjustment", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a single change" or "one change"?

Both "a single change" and "one change" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "A single change" might subtly emphasize the isolated nature of the change.

What's the difference between "a single change" and "a minor change"?

"A single change" simply indicates that only one alteration occurred, while "a minor change" implies that the alteration was small or insignificant, regardless of how many changes were made.