a single sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to one complete statement or thought expressed in a grammatical structure. Example: "Please summarize your argument in a single sentence for clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three celebrities in a single sentence.

The Guardian

In a single sentence: class dismissed.

The Guardian - Books

Overview | What can a single sentence accomplish?

The New York Times

But I haven't written a single sentence.

The New Yorker

Some are just a single sentence.

The Guardian - Books

He once used it twice in a single sentence.

The Washington Post

Or sometimes, even, within the space of a single sentence.

The Guardian - Books

Camus summed up the novel's lesson in a single sentence.

The Guardian

Not bad for a single sentence in a radio interview.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is a Communist jargon recognizable after a single sentence.

The New York Times

Most could be explained in a single sentence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single sentence" to clearly and concisely convey a point. This can be especially useful in summaries, conclusions, or when simplifying complex ideas.

Common error

Avoid cramming too many ideas into "a single sentence". A single sentence should be clear and focused. If you find yourself using multiple clauses and conjunctions, consider breaking it down into multiple sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single sentence" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a verb. Ludwig provides many examples demonstrating its use in various grammatical contexts. The phrase describes one complete and grammatically independent clause.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

20%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a single sentence" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to refer to a concise unit of thought. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and offers numerous examples from diverse sources, predominantly News & Media and Academia. Understanding its function and purpose allows for effective communication, particularly when brevity and clarity are crucial. Related phrases offer nuanced alternatives, while writing guidance emphasizes the importance of focus and avoidance of overly complex sentence structures. The linguistic analysis reveals its adaptability across various registers, highlighting its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one sentence

Omits the article "a" for a slightly more concise phrasing.

a solitary sentence

Replaces "single" with "solitary" emphasizing isolation or uniqueness.

just one sentence

Adds emphasis on the singularity using "just".

a unique sentence

Highlights the distinctiveness of the sentence.

a lone sentence

Uses "lone" to convey a sense of isolation.

a single line

Substitutes "sentence" with "line", useful in specific contexts like poetry or code.

a concise statement

Replaces "sentence" with "statement" to focus on the brevity and directness of the message.

a brief remark

Uses "remark" to imply a short, spoken sentence.

a short declaration

Highlights the act of declaring something quickly and succinctly.

a simple expression

Focuses on the simplicity of conveying an idea.

FAQs

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

Use "a single sentence" to summarize main points, create impactful openings, or provide concise explanations. Ensure it's grammatically correct and easy to understand.

What are some alternatives to "a single sentence"?

You can use alternatives such as "one sentence", "a solitary sentence", or "just one sentence" depending on the context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to use "a single sentence" or multiple shorter sentences?

It depends on the complexity of the information. "A single sentence" can be effective for simple ideas, while multiple shorter sentences may be better for complex or detailed explanations.

How can I avoid making "a single sentence" too long and confusing?

Focus on one main idea per sentence. Use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary clauses or phrases. If the sentence becomes too complex, consider breaking it down into multiple sentences.