a solitary instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a solitary instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a single occurrence or example of something, often emphasizing its uniqueness or rarity. Example: "In the study, the researchers found a solitary instance of the phenomenon that had not been previously documented."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But mighty Tate Modern, for instance, has only a solitary example of his work.

The Guardian - Arts

More eloquently than any professional media scholar, the journalist Evan Eisenberg made people see--in his book, The Recording Angel--that among the uses of sound recording, convenience is only the most obvious. 1 In a chapter titled "Ceremonies of a Solitary," for instance, Eisenberg details how recording media help consumers organize individualized rituals tailored to their schedules.

Johns Hopkins University

"Had we all been still independent, we could have had more faith in their not attempting any change; but the greater number being their subjects, while they were treating us as equals, they would naturally chafe under this solitary instance of independence as contrasted with the submission of the majority; particularly as they daily grew more powerful, and we more destitute.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Harrison McIntosh, for instance, was a solitary potter before being hired to design architectural tiles for the Interpace Corp.

Los Angeles Times

Moreover, a single species can combine at least two traits, for instance, aposematism and gregariousness, crypsis and a solitary lifestyle, the presence of ventral glands and an endophytic lifestyle, or ventral glands and aposematism.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Escape those guards, for instance, and you enter a baggage hall where a solitary holdall trundles round the carousel, ominously unclaimed, as if the owner was lost in transit.

The Guardian - Arts

A solitary depressive?

The New Yorker

He is a solitary.

The New Yorker

Or a solitary singer.

The Guardian - Music

This is a solitary pursuit.

Independent

A solitary act of defiance?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a solitary instance" to emphasize the uniqueness or rarity of something, especially when contrasting it with more common occurrences. For example, "This study presents a solitary instance of this behavior, warranting further investigation."

Common error

Avoid using "a solitary instance" too frequently in your writing. While it's a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or overly formal. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a single case" or "an isolated example".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solitary instance" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a single, isolated occurrence of something. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a solitary instance" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote a single, isolated occurrence. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to note that, based on the available data, the phrase's frequency is relatively rare. It is most commonly found in news, academic and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, consider its synonyms like "a single case" or "an isolated example" to avoid repetition and maintain a natural flow in your writing. Remember to emphasize the uniqueness or rarity of the occurrence you are describing when using "a solitary instance".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a single case

Focuses on the singularity of the event or situation, similar to highlighting it as one-off.

an isolated example

Emphasizes the separation of the instance from others, suggesting it's not typical.

a unique occurrence

Highlights the distinct and non-repeating nature of the instance.

a lone instance

Stresses the lack of similar examples, positioning it as the only one.

an exceptional case

Indicates the instance deviates from the norm, setting it apart.

a one-off situation

Highlights that the situation happened only one time.

a singular event

Emphasizes the event's uniqueness and lack of recurrence.

an isolated incident

Implies the incident is disconnected and not part of a pattern.

a rare example

Suggests that the instance is infrequently seen or encountered.

an atypical event

Describes the event as not conforming to the usual type.

FAQs

How can I use "a solitary instance" in a sentence?

You can use "a solitary instance" to refer to a unique or isolated occurrence of something. For example: "The report cited "a solitary instance" of fraud, but otherwise found no irregularities."

What are some alternatives to "a solitary instance"?

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

Is it better to say "a solitary instance" or "an isolated instance"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "Solitary" emphasizes being alone or without companions, while "isolated" emphasizes being separated from others. The choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey. Consider that while "a solitary instance" refers to one single case, the quality metrics provided by Ludwig confirm that this expression is not very common.

Can "a solitary instance" be used in both formal and informal writing?

Yes, "a solitary instance" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although it may sound slightly more formal. It can be replaced by alternatives like "a single case" in informal writing.