a single purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a single purpose' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to one specific goal or objective that someone or something has. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing a person's intentions or the function of an object. Example: The company's new marketing campaign had a single purpose: to increase sales by 20% within the next quarter. In this example, 'a single purpose' is used to emphasize the specific and focused goal of the marketing campaign, which is to increase sales by a specific amount in a given time frame.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

This gadget isn't just dedicated to a single purpose.

The New York Times - Tech

Religiously-charged phrases serve a single purpose: to provide comfort, reassurance.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There's a single purpose: you want to go as fast as possible; it's all about aerodynamics.

The New Yorker

For the first time since Mubarak fell, the crowd seemed unified with a single purpose.

The New Yorker

His existence had been reduced to a single purpose: making his mileage.

The New Yorker

Lots of athletes at his level hoard their energy for a single purpose.

The New York Times - Magazine

Judge Eagles added: "People rarely act with a single purpose in mind.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Modern systems and market economics have made food into a single-purpose commodity, like petrol.

The Guardian - Opinion

Above all, it's solid evidence that there's value in a single-purpose gadget.

The New York Times - Tech

It's going to be a single-purpose thing, a small machine that acts like a lens and zooms in.

The New Yorker

Each deal involves a single-purpose entity or corporation to invest the equity and take on debt.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a single purpose", ensure the context clearly defines that purpose to avoid ambiguity. Clarity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a single purpose" when multiple purposes exist, even if one is dominant. This exaggeration can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single purpose" functions primarily as a noun phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction refers to a specific, solitary objective. It commonly acts as a subject complement, object of a preposition, or appositive, clarifying the intent or function of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single purpose" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase signifying a solitary, focused objective. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The phrase appears most often in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using "a single purpose", ensure that the purpose is clearly defined and that the context genuinely supports the claim of singularity. Alternative phrases like "a specific goal" or "a primary objective" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific meaning intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific goal

Focuses on the defined and particular nature of the aim.

a primary objective

Highlights the main aim to be achieved.

a sole intention

Emphasizes the exclusivity and singularity of the intent.

a unique aim

Stresses that the aim is distinctive and one of a kind.

a focused objective

Highlights the clear and concentrated nature of the goal.

a clear intention

Underscores the unambiguous nature of the purpose.

a central aim

Emphasizes the importance and centrality of the objective.

a main goal

Focuses on the principal objective to be achieved.

a set purpose

Implies a determined and resolute aim.

a fixed objective

Highlights the unchangeable and determined nature of the aim.

FAQs

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

Use "a single purpose" to highlight the primary or only aim of an action, plan, or device. For example, "The tool was designed with "a single purpose": to simplify the user experience."

What are some alternatives to "a single purpose"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific goal", "a primary objective", or "a sole intention" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "for a single purpose"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. Using "for" before "a single purpose" often clarifies the reason or intention behind an action or design. For instance, "The funds were allocated for "a single purpose": to improve education."

What's the difference between "a single purpose" and "multiple purposes"?

"A single purpose" indicates one, focused aim, while "multiple purposes" suggests several different goals or functions. Using the correct term ensures clarity in your writing.