a singular instance of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a singular instance of" is a correct phrase that is used in written English.
It can be used to describe an example that is unique or unusual, and is often used to emphasize the uniqueness of a particular instance. For example, "This is a singular instance of a product that is available in a variety of colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The targeting of Beard is hardly a singular instance of online misogyny, and she is quick to note that there are differences of degree.

The New Yorker

Yours was not a singular instance of pain and humiliation, as interahamwe militia systematically killed your family and neighbors.

Huffington Post

But do we reallyneed Ofcom looking into a singular instance of "perhaps more breasts than some think necessary"?

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This isn't a singular instance.

Huffington Post

Hers is a singular example of literary independence.

The New Yorker

The problem for Which? is proving that the examples it gives where promotions do not appear to be all that they seem are more than singular instances of poor behaviour.

BBC

What follows is an erratic evening of comedy, cabaret and (in one singular instance) politics from performers whose low TV profile can too often be explained not by opposition to the mainstream, but by their not being very good.

The Guardian

To address another sort of identity question, we look for instance-wise criteria that establish when an object is this or that singular object, or an instance of a multiple object.

SEP

It was a singular act of courage.

The New Yorker

"You showed a singular lack of restraint.

Independent

It was a singular act of gracelessness.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a singular instance of" to emphasize the rarity or uniqueness of a particular event or phenomenon, especially when contrasting it with more common occurrences. It adds weight to your observation.

Common error

Avoid using "a singular instance of" when simply stating something is unique. This phrase implies a more profound rarity or exceptionality. Use "a unique example of" instead for cases of basic uniqueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a singular instance of" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It highlights a specific occurrence and its uniqueness. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and used to describe unique instances.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a singular instance of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the uniqueness or rarity of an event. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes an example that stands out. While found across various domains, it's most prevalent in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When writing, reserve its use for instances truly deserving of the emphasis on exceptionality. If something is merely unique, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. Remember the phrase's formal tone and use it judiciously to enhance your writing effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exceptional case of

This alternative emphasizes the unusual and remarkable nature of the event or situation.

a unique occurrence of

This alternative focuses on the one-of-a-kind nature of the event, highlighting its distinctiveness.

an isolated example of

This alternative suggests the event is rare and not part of a larger pattern.

a rare demonstration of

This alternative highlights the infrequency of the event while also suggesting it showcases a specific quality or trait.

a distinctive manifestation of

This choice emphasizes the unique way something is expressed or shown.

a solitary incident of

This phrase stresses the event happened alone and without repetition.

an unprecedented illustration of

This option emphasizes the novelty and lack of prior examples for the occurrence.

an atypical display of

This alternative focuses on how the event deviates from what is considered normal or typical.

an uncommon exhibition of

This highlights that the instance is not frequently observed.

a peculiar happening of

This alternative underlines the strange or unusual nature of the event.

FAQs

How can I use "a singular instance of" in a sentence?

You can use "a singular instance of" to highlight the unique or unusual nature of an event or occurrence. For example, "The discovery of this artifact is a singular instance of finding such well-preserved items in this region."

What's a good alternative to "a singular instance of"?

Alternatives include "an exceptional case of", "a unique occurrence of", or "an isolated example of". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a singular instance of" formal or informal?

The phrase "a singular instance of" leans towards a more formal register, making it suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic contexts. Simpler phrases may be better in informal settings.

When should I NOT use "a singular instance of"?

Avoid using "a singular instance of" when describing something that is simply unique but not necessarily rare or exceptional. In those cases, consider using phrases like "a unique example of" or "a special case of".