a single goal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single goal" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a focused and unified purpose that a person or group strives to achieve. For example, "Our company has a single goal: to be the most successful business in our industry".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His experiments have a single goal.

The New York Times

A defeat by a single goal likewise.

Independent

By May, Mr. Yassky had a single goal.

The New York Times

All five losses were by a single goal.

The New York Times - Sports

This is how much a single goal changed everything.

The Guardian - Sport

He had a single goal in the playoffs.

The New York Times

We didn't manage a single goal from open play.

The Guardian - Sport

And in both cases, it is just a single goal.

The Guardian - Sport

But tort law does not serve a single goal...

Harvard University

Five wins from five and not a single goal conceded.

Independent

Sport is a simple pursuit with a single goal.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single goal", ensure that the context clearly defines the specific goal to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Their company has a single goal", specify "Their company has a single goal: to increase market share by 15%."

Common error

Avoid using "a single goal" in situations where multiple goals are actually being pursued. Ensure that the statement accurately reflects the focus on one primary objective. Using the phrase when multiple goals are in play dilutes the message and confuses the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single goal" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement, direct object, or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. This indicates that it can effectively specify the purpose or objective in a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

20%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single goal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that conveys focus and purpose. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and can be used in written English. It is most commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, emphasizing its versatility. When using "a single goal", ensure the goal is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "one clear objective" or "a unified purpose" can be considered for nuanced variations. Remember that employing the phrase when multiple goals are present can dilute the message and cause confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one clear objective

Emphasizes clarity and singularity of the objective rather than the effort.

a unified purpose

Highlights the aspect of unity and shared intention in pursuing the goal.

a primary aim

Focuses on the main or most important aim.

a specific objective

Emphasizes the defined and particular nature of the objective.

a singular focus

Highlights the concentration of attention on one particular aim.

a sole intention

Emphasizes that there is only one intention.

the only objective

Stresses the exclusivity of the objective, implying it is the only one.

a directed ambition

Suggests a more aspirational and targeted ambition.

a focused aspiration

Highlights aspiration.

a main target

Replaces "goal" with "target", conveying a sense of something to aim for.

FAQs

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

To effectively use "a single goal", clearly define what that goal is within the sentence or the immediate context. For example: "The project team is aligned towards "a single goal": to deliver the project on time and within budget".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a single goal"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "one clear objective", "a unified purpose", or "a primary aim".

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "a single goal"?

The phrase "a single goal" is particularly appropriate when emphasizing focus and clarity of purpose. It is often used in business, sports, or academic settings to highlight a concentrated effort toward a specific objective.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a single goal"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use the phrase "a single goal". The phrase is commonly used in English and follows standard grammatical rules.