a single time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a single time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something occurs only once. Example: "I have only seen that movie a single time, but it left a lasting impression on me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not a single time.

The New Yorker

one day, ever, not a single time.

The New York Times

Not a single time was Vick sacked.

The New York Times - Sports

"I've not looked back a single time.

The Guardian

I can't think of a single time that this didn't work.

The New York Times

It has not been used a single time since we eliminated it.

The New Yorker

Is Thomson aware that all four of those films were released in a single time year?

The Guardian - Film

The prosecutor read the paper during breaks and didn't yell: Objection, Your Honor! a single time.

The New Yorker

Magellan has already achieved its primary mission, which was to map Venus a single time.

The New Yorker

For the third season in a row, he did not run the ball a single time.

The New York Times - Sports

He conducted six of his own compositions, each a single time.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a single time" to emphasize that something happened only once, especially when contrasting it with multiple occurrences or a recurring event. For instance, 'He visited the museum only a single time, but the experience remained vivid in his memory.'

Common error

Avoid using "a single time" in simple narratives where 'once' or 'one time' would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or repetitive. For example, instead of 'I saw her a single time', prefer 'I saw her once'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a single time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to specify frequency or emphasize a unique occurrence. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, from describing events that happened only once to emphasizing the absence of an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a single time" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the uniqueness or infrequency of an event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide application across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as scientific publications. While alternatives like ""once"" or ""just once"" exist, "a single time" adds a layer of emphasis, making it suitable for scenarios where highlighting the singularity is crucial. By avoiding overuse in simple narratives and opting for more concise alternatives when appropriate, writers can effectively leverage the impact of the phrase while maintaining clarity and conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one time

This is a more straightforward and common alternative. It is more colloquial.

just once

This emphasizes the singularity and infrequency of the event.

a single instance

Similar to "a solitary instance", but slightly more formal.

a solitary instance

Highlights the isolated and unique nature of the occurrence.

on one occasion

Formally indicates a specific, individual event.

in one instance

Highlights a specific example or case.

a unique moment

Focuses on the singularity and special character of the moment.

a lone occurrence

Emphasizes the isolated nature of the event.

a singular event

Stresses the distinct and remarkable nature of the event.

for once

Implies rarity and a deviation from the norm.

FAQs

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

You can use "a single time" to emphasize the uniqueness or infrequency of an event. For example, "I've only been to Paris "a single time" in my life" or "She hasn't missed "a single time" since joining the team."

What are some alternatives to "a single time"?

Alternatives include "once", "just once", or "on one occasion", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it better to say "once" or "a single time"?

Both are correct, but ""once"" is generally more concise and suitable for informal contexts. "A single time" adds emphasis and can be more appropriate in formal or technical writing when you want to highlight the singularity of an event.

What does it mean to say "not a single time"?

Saying "not "a single time"" emphasizes that something has never happened or occurred, reinforcing the absence of an event. For example, "He didn't complain not "a single time" during the difficult journey."