a single issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to one specific problem or topic among many. Example: "The debate focused on a single issue that divided the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"You're only representative of a single issue.

The Guardian - Books

Initially, the motivation was a single issue.

The Guardian

If it is a single-issue party, then it needs to campaign on a single issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now he is driven by a single issue.

The New York Times

Arm Fall Off Boy featured in a single issue.

The Guardian

4. Ukip are not just a single issue party.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Ah, a single-issue crank.

The Guardian

Iran is not a single-issue country.

The New York Times

I've never been a single-issue voter.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I am not," she says simply, "a single-issue person.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I'm not a single-issue activist," she explains.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider if "single" truly captures the nuance you need. Sometimes, issues are interconnected, and using "a single issue" might oversimplify a complex situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a single issue" when the problem at hand is multifaceted. This can lead to overlooking crucial interconnected factors and providing incomplete solutions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single issue" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It serves to identify one particular problem, topic, or concern. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single issue" is a commonly used phrase to highlight a specific problem or topic. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and scientific publications. While useful for focusing attention, it's important to avoid oversimplifying complex situations when using this phrase. Consider alternatives like "one specific concern" or "a particular matter" to better capture the intended meaning. Remember, clarity and accuracy are key when communicating effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one specific concern

Replaces "issue" with "concern", emphasizing the element of worry or importance attached to the problem.

a particular matter

Substitutes "issue" with "matter", making the phrase slightly more formal and general.

a sole problem

Replaces "single issue" with "sole problem" emphasizing that there is only one problem.

an isolated case

Implies that the issue is not part of a larger pattern, highlighting its uniqueness.

one overriding factor

Suggests that the issue is the most important and influences everything else.

a key question

Frames the issue as a question that needs to be answered, implying a need for investigation or resolution.

a central theme

Presents the issue as a recurring idea or topic of discussion, especially in a broader context.

a focused subject

Highlights that the issue is the center of attention or study and implies a narrowing of scope.

a unifying element

Suggests that the issue is something that brings different aspects or perspectives together.

a common thread

Implies that the issue is a recurring theme that connects various elements or events.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single issue" to highlight a specific problem or topic. For example, "The election hinged on "a single issue": healthcare reform.".

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

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "one specific concern", "a particular matter", or "a sole problem".

Is it accurate to describe a complex situation as "a single issue"?

Describing a complex situation as "a single issue" might be an oversimplification. Consider whether the situation involves multiple interconnected factors before using this phrase.

What is the difference between "a single issue" and "an issue"?

"An issue" refers to a general problem or topic, while "a single issue" emphasizes that you are focusing on one specific problem or topic out of many.