a singular request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a singular request" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that there is one specific request being made, often in contexts where multiple requests might be expected or considered. Example: "In light of the recent changes, I have a singular request regarding the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Phones are always ringing in old churches in working-class neighborhoods, but this caller, a priest, had a singular request.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ryness has a singular talent: an ability to perform comically dead-on impressions of major league baseball hitters upon request.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a singular document.

The New Yorker

There's a singular aftermath.

The New York Times

Lund is a singular creation.

Independent

Ferguson's is not a singular situation.

The New Yorker

It was a singular act of courage.

The New Yorker

ALBERT EINSTEIN was a singular genius.

The Economist

It is a singular amenity offered by a singular structure.

The New York Times

A phenomenal, but a singular instinct.

The New York Times - Sports

It has been a singular mission.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a singular request" to emphasize that the request is unique or stands apart from typical requests. This can add a touch of formality or importance to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a singular request" in very casual situations where a more direct or simple phrasing would be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your speech sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a singular request" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "request". It indicates that the request is unique or exceptional. Ludwig's analysis confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a singular request" is a grammatically correct way to emphasize the unique nature of a request. According to Ludwig, it's perfectly usable and serves to highlight the distinctiveness of the request. While less common than alternatives like "a unique request" or "a specific request", it adds a touch of formality and emphasis. Primarily found in news and media, it is best used when you want to ensure the request stands out as exceptional. Consider the context to avoid sounding stilted in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique request

Replaces "singular" with "unique", emphasizing the request's distinctiveness.

a specific request

Uses "specific" instead of "singular", highlighting the precise nature of the request.

a particular request

Substitutes "singular" with "particular", focusing on the distinctness of the request.

an exceptional request

Emphasizes the unusual or noteworthy nature of the request.

an uncommon request

Highlights the infrequency of such a request.

a special request

Indicates the request requires special attention or consideration.

a rare request

Stresses the infrequency of the request, similar to "uncommon".

a distinctive request

Highlights the unique qualities that set the request apart.

an isolated request

Suggests the request is the only one of its kind or stands alone.

a one-off request

Implies the request is a single occurrence and not part of a regular pattern.

FAQs

How can I use "a singular request" in a sentence?

You can use "a singular request" to highlight a unique or specific demand. For example, "The client had "a singular request" for a custom-designed interface."

What is a good alternative to "a singular request"?

Alternatives include "a unique request", "a specific request", or "a particular request", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a singular request" or "a unique request"?

Both ""a singular request"" and "a unique request" are correct, but "unique" might be more common in everyday language. "Singular" adds a slightly more formal or emphatic tone.

What does "singular" mean in the context of "a singular request"?

In this context, "singular" means unique, exceptional, or standing out from others. It emphasizes that the request is not ordinary or typical.