a single course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to one specific class or subject in an educational context or a particular dish in a meal setting. Example: "For this semester, I am only taking a single course to focus on my research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It would be a shame to skip a single course.

The New York Times

Use search to quickly add a single course.

Cornell University

These exhibits are based on the output of students' coursework, usually from a single course.

The Experiential Library Transforming Academic and Research Libraries Through the Power of Experiential Learning

All patients received prophylactic antibiotics and a single course of antenatal betamethasone.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Higher education courses do not offer the necessary body of knowledge in a single course.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

More than three-quarters of those universities do not require a single course in American history.

The New York Times - Arts

A single course in U.S. government for high-school seniors would suit him well.

The New Yorker

They are Contemporary Civilization and Humanities — not a single course, Western Civilization and Humanities.

The New York Times

While portions are hearty, it would be a shame to miss a single course.

The New York Times

Lunches are a single course with dessert, while dinners are the traditional three courses.

The New York Times - Travel

A single course at a private college can top $3,300.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single course", ensure the context clarifies whether you are referring to a course of study or a course of treatment (e.g., antibiotics). Use additional clarifying words if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "a single course" without sufficient context, as "course" can refer to academic studies or medical treatments. Clearly specify the context to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single course" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly identifies one instance of a class or subject, or one set of treatment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single course" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote one specific instance of a class, subject or medical treatment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its meaning is generally clear, but context is important to distinguish between academic and medical usages. Found frequently in academic, news, and scientific sources, its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse writing styles. When employing "a single course", ensure clarity by providing enough context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one course

Replaces "single" with "one", offering a more concise alternative.

a solitary course

Substitutes "single" with "solitary", emphasizing the isolated nature of the course.

an individual course

Replaces "single" with "individual", highlighting the course's distinct identity.

a unique course

Emphasizes the distinctiveness or special nature of the course.

a standalone course

Highlights that the course is independent and not part of a series.

a specific course

Focuses on the particular or defined nature of the course.

a particular course

Similar to "a specific course", emphasizing a certain course.

a single module

Replaces "course" with "module", referring to a component of a broader program.

one subject

Uses "subject" instead of "course", focusing on the area of study.

one class

Replaces "course" with "class", referring to a session or meeting.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single course" to refer to one specific academic class, such as, "I'm taking "a single course" this semester" or to a treatment regimen, as in, "The infection was cleared with "a single course" of antibiotics".

What are some alternatives to "a single course"?

Alternatives include "one course", "a solitary course", or "an individual course", depending on the desired emphasis.

Is it correct to say "a single course" or should I say "one course"?

Both "a single course" and "one course" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "A single course" can sometimes emphasize the 'only one' aspect more strongly.

What's the difference between "a single course" and "a major"?

While "a single course" refers to one specific class or subject, "a major" signifies a student's primary field of study, encompassing multiple courses and requirements within that discipline.