a single thread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single thread" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to refer to one continuous line or element, often metaphorically to describe a connection or a focus point. Example: "In the intricate tapestry of our lives, a single thread can represent the choices we make that shape our future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Akiko Ikeuchi passes a single thread across the gallery.

The New York Times - Arts

"The banking system is virtually hanging from a single thread".

The New York Times

But a single thread tied the strands of his work together - concern about inequality.

The Guardian

There is, of course, neither a straight nor a single thread to this narrative.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Dalbavie runs a single thread of high-pitched strings through most of "Color".

The New York Times - Arts

"They never attached a single thread to the money," he said.

The New York Times

Disbelief is left suspended by a single thread, but it holds.

The Guardian - Books

Standard industrial software uses a single "thread" of information, moving through one chip.

The New York Times

If it's the stream of table tennis, there might be a single thread".

The New York Times - Sports

We don't any longer talk about a single thread of lineage from antiquity to the present".

Independent

The firm has also produced an athletic shoe with an "upper" knitted from a single thread.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single thread" to emphasize a singular, unbroken connection or element running through multiple aspects of a situation or narrative. This helps create a sense of unity and focus for your reader.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on the "a single thread" metaphor, as it can become cliché. Instead, explore alternative ways to convey connection and unity, such as using precise language to show direct relationships between elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single thread" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It is used to represent a literal thread, a connection, or a unifying element. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

48%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a single thread" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that serves to denote a connection, unifying element, or literal strand running through various elements. Ludwig AI indicates that it finds application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. Its usage helps to highlight a singular focus or an underlying relationship. The phrase is versatile enough for both formal and informal settings, though overuse of the metaphor should be avoided. Remember to use it to show the connection but also be creative and try not to overuse it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one thread

Replaces the article "a" with "one", emphasizing singularity.

a lone thread

Adds a sense of isolation or uniqueness to the thread.

a solitary thread

Similar to "a lone thread", emphasizing the isolated nature of the thread.

a connecting thread

Directly emphasizes the linking function of the thread.

a unifying thread

Highlights the thread's role in bringing disparate elements together.

a common thread

Shifts the focus to a shared element or connection between different things.

a single line of thought

Focuses on a singular, unbroken chain of reasoning.

a tenuous link

Suggests a fragile or weak connection, similar to a thin thread.

a central theme

Refers to the main idea or topic, similar to a thread running throughout a work.

a key element

Represents the thread as an essential component.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single thread" to describe a connection or unifying element, as in "a single thread tied the strands of his work together" or "a single thread connecting everything".

What are some alternatives to "a single thread"?

Alternatives include "one thread", "a common thread", "a unifying thread", or "a connecting thread", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a single thread" metaphorically?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize a connection, theme, or element that runs throughout something, such as a story, argument, or system. The metaphor works best when the connection is not immediately obvious but becomes clear upon closer examination.

Is "a single thread" formal or informal?

The phrase "a single thread" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While the metaphor itself might be more common in descriptive or analytical writing, it can be used across a range of registers depending on the overall tone and purpose of the communication.