a single session

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single session" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to one instance of an event or activity, often in contexts like meetings, classes, or therapy. Example: "The workshop will be conducted in a single session lasting two hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The experiment consisted of a single session.

Nature

Membership is $20; a single session is $8.

The New York Times

Counseling care may be limited to a single session.

University of California, Berkeley

Multiple spirits would pass through Kony in a single session.

The New York Times

The lyrics have been translated, and the songs recorded live in a single session.

The Guardian - Music

"But it was a surprise that the unwinding was all in a single session".

The New York Times

McCabe scored 127 runs in a single session, still an Ashes record.

The Guardian - Sport

Ms. Capposella said there was a metamorphosis in patients during the course of a single session.

The New York Times - Health

I haven't taught a single session when everyone who's supposed to turn up has turned up.

The Guardian

A person can spend from £3 to more than £30 on khat in a single session.

The Guardian

"Now, we can move 4,500 grafts in a single session.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing experiments or treatments, use "a single session" to clearly indicate that the procedure was performed only once for each participant or subject. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in research reports and medical documentation.

Common error

Avoid using "a single session" when "one session" or simply "the session" would be more concise and equally clear. Overusing "single" can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single session" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as an object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI describes, it refers to one instance of an event or activity. Examples from Ludwig include its use in describing experiments, counseling, and recording sessions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a single session" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to indicate that an event or activity occurs only once. As Ludwig AI explains, it's employed across various fields, including science, news, and academia, to provide clarity and precision. Its frequency is very high, making it a versatile and reliable choice for specifying the occurrence of an event. While alternatives like "one session" exist, "a single session" often adds emphasis. When writing, ensure the context warrants the "single" modifier and avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one session

A more concise alternative, emphasizing the numerical aspect.

an individual session

Emphasizes the session being separate and distinct.

a one-time session

Stresses that the session only occurs once.

a unique session

Highlights the individuality or distinctiveness of the session.

a stand-alone session

Highlights that the session is independent and not part of a series.

a solitary session

Suggests the session is performed alone or without others.

a solo session

Highlights the fact that the session involves one participant.

a single sitting

Implies the action is completed in one continuous period.

a single occurrence

Focuses on the event happening only one time.

a focused session

Implies a session with concentrated effort or attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single session" to describe an event or activity that occurs only once, such as "The experiment consisted of "a single session" lasting two hours".

What are some alternatives to "a single session"?

You can use alternatives like "one session", "unique session", or "individual session" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a single session"?

While sometimes "single" might seem redundant, it can be useful for emphasis or clarity, especially when contrasting with multiple sessions. However, consider if "one session" or simply "the session" works just as well.

What's the difference between "a single session" and "one session"?

The phrases ""a single session"" and "one session" are largely interchangeable. "A single session" may subtly emphasize the 'one-time' nature of the event, while "one session" is more straightforward.