a single opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a single opinion' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a single opinion on a subject or issue, as opposed to multiple opinions. For example, "Although many people had different opinions about the issue, John held a single opinion that remained unchanged."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Companies are not monoliths with a single opinion.

The Guardian

I can't think of a single opinion she holds – it's very Jane Austen".

Independent

When it comes to war, the veterans sitting at the bar here tonight had a single opinion.

The New York Times

Ostensibly, these essays are about manageable subjects, subjects about which it's possible to have a single opinion, like higher education, parenting, or "mindfulness".

The New Yorker

Do you know a 70-year-old who has not rethought a single opinion formed at age 20? Steadfastness like his will be missed.

The New York Times

"While Fannie Mae officials do not have a single opinion, some officials believe foreclosure counsel are sacrificing accuracy for speed," the report said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Point is: Any single opinion amplified via this megaphone method of follower armies intent on crushing alternative perspectives can be oppressive to those with a differing view.

TechCrunch

Due to that, we could not rely on a single, individual opinion.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Simple sentences possess single opinion about a product, while compound sentences have multiple opinions expressed together.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Even so, Washington and Pratt have managed not to deliver a single tangible opinion – unless you count their views on the risks of giving opinions.

The Guardian - Film

Anyone still determined to make predictions about what will happen ought to remember that two weeks ago, nobody would have predicted the Lib Dems coming first or second in nearly every single opinion poll just a few days later.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single opinion" to emphasize that only one viewpoint is being considered, especially when contrasting it with multiple or diverse perspectives. For instance, when summarizing a debate, specify when you are presenting "a single opinion" among many.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a single opinion" as a universal truth or widely accepted fact. Always contextualize it as an individual viewpoint, especially in discussions where multiple perspectives exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single opinion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating that it fits standard grammatical rules and communicative conventions. Examples from Ludwig show its function in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single opinion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to denote an individual's viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and showcases its application across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. The phrase serves to highlight a unique perspective, and it’s crucial to acknowledge it as such, avoiding generalizations. When using this phrase, be clear about whether you're contrasting it with a broader consensus or simply focusing on one specific viewpoint. Remember not to present "a single opinion" as a universal truth but rather as one perspective among potentially many.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one person's view

Focuses on the individual holding the view.

an individual perspective

Highlights the uniqueness and personal nature of the viewpoint.

a solitary belief

Emphasizes the isolated nature of the belief.

a lone conviction

Stresses the firmness and singularity of the conviction.

a personal judgment

Highlights the role of personal assessment in forming the opinion.

an isolated thought

Underscores the separation of the thought from broader consensus.

one's exclusive stance

Points out the possessive and unique positioning of the person.

a distinct viewpoint

Highlights that the viewpoint is unique and different from others.

an individual assessment

Highlights the individual nature of the evaluation.

a singular perspective

Underscores the unique and individual outlook.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single opinion" to highlight an individual's viewpoint, contrasting it with others. For example, "While there were many perspectives, the report focused on "a single opinion" to drive its narrative."

What are some alternatives to "a single opinion"?

Alternatives include "one person's view", "an individual perspective", or "a lone conviction", depending on the context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to present "a single opinion" or multiple opinions in a balanced discussion?

It depends on the goal. Presenting "a single opinion" is useful when you want to focus on a particular viewpoint, but a balanced discussion usually requires multiple perspectives.

When is it inappropriate to highlight "a single opinion"?

It is inappropriate when it misrepresents consensus or when failing to acknowledge diverse viewpoints is misleading, particularly in sensitive debates or ethical considerations.