a single mishap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single mishap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to one unfortunate incident or mistake that has occurred. Example: "Despite the success of the event, a single mishap with the sound system caused some delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Space is a very demanding environment where, even if thousands of things go right, a single mishap can doom the whole mission.

The New York Times

Even so, Poulter managed to come home yesterday with nine straight pars, the hardest section of the course traversed in the most testing conditions without a single mishap.

The Guardian - Sport

The idea is that disease isn't just a collection of symptoms, or even a single mishap.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Do not let a failed piece or single mishap ruin your commitment, refresh yourself with a hiatus and return to it later.

WikiHow

Many wrote to us about the normal burdens of low-wage life -- the unpredictable hours at low pay, the single mishap that can send things spiraling out of control, the difficulty making a life for the kids and the overall indignity of it all.

Huffington Post

Tracing the sequence of events that led to a computer-related incident usually leads in many directions, as such incidents are seldom the result of a single error or mishap.

SEP

That was all it took Saturday as a walk here, a single and a fielding mishap there, a pitch up in the zone sent over the fence — all in a few minutes — spoiled what had been a big week for the Mets.

The New York Times - Sports

By contrast, Nansen's method of using small, trained crews, and harnessing Inuit and Sami expertise in his methods of travel, had ensured that his expedition was completed without a single casualty or major mishap.

Wikipedia

Mr Jobs and his colleagues have created an impressive business that will not be derailed by a mishap with a single version of a wildly successful device.

The Economist

Most involve scoring sheet mishaps, but on average, 370 students a year dispute a single question.

The New York Times

"I would call that a lapse, a mishap, not a violation of the rules," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single mishap" to downplay negative occurences, and imply that this is not part of a trend but rather an outlier.

Common error

Avoid using "a single mishap" when describing events with widespread or severe consequences. Using it in such contexts can minimize the importance of the event and appear insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single mishap" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to one instance of an unfortunate event or mistake. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single mishap" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase employed to describe an isolated unfortunate event or error. As Ludwig AI explains, it's appropriate for indicating that an incident is not part of a larger pattern. While generally neutral in tone, it's most frequently encountered in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of the event's true significance and whether more impactful language might be more appropriate. Consider using "one isolated incident" or "a solitary mistake" as suitable alternatives depending on the particular meaning you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a single error

Simple substitution of "mishap" with a more generic term for a mistake.

one unfortunate event

Replaces "mishap" with a more general term for an occurrence that is unwelcome or unlucky

one isolated incident

Focuses on the isolation and uniqueness of the event.

a singular accident

Focuses on the accidental nature of the event, often implying harm or damage.

a solitary mistake

Emphasizes the error aspect, suitable when the mishap is due to human error.

an individual slip-up

Implies a minor, often unintentional error.

an isolated problem

Highlights that the problem is not part of a bigger issue.

a one-time blunder

Highlights the accidental and non-recurring nature of the mishap.

an isolated failing

Highlights that the failing is not part of a pattern.

a unique failing

Stresses the distinctiveness and possibly unexpected nature of the failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single mishap" to describe an isolated unfortunate event or mistake. For example, "Despite the team's meticulous planning, "a single mishap" during the launch caused a delay."

What are some alternatives to "a single mishap"?

Alternatives include "one isolated incident", "a solitary mistake", or "a unique failing", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a single mishap" formal or informal?

"A single mishap" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal situations might benefit from using more precise or technical language, such as "an isolated incident" or "a singular anomaly".

When is it inappropriate to use "a single mishap"?

It is generally inappropriate to use "a single mishap" when describing catastrophic events or situations with severe consequences. In such cases, using this phrase might minimize the gravity of the situation. A more accurate description might be needed.