a top one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a top one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is among the best or highest in quality or ranking within a specific category. Example: "This restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delicious food; it's definitely a top one in the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

It became fashionable to argue that the most useful thing a business school, particularly a top one, does for its students was to confer on them its stamp of approval by letting them in.

The Economist

It faces strains on its model -- and the threat of Googlization is a top one -- but we have time for citizens and policymakers to step up and figure out what new models can sustain both new innovation AND a robust standard of living for all workers in the industry.

Huffington Post

A young defender that needs time to be a top one but who has top potential [Eric Bailly].

The Guardian - Sport

The difference in value between an average software engineer and a top one is substantially greater than between an average lawyer and a top attorney.

Columbia University

If you can get a top ten, why can't you get a top five, and a top three, and a top one?) But best-ness isn't the only factor that goes into the making of an annual ten-best list.

The New Yorker

If you want to go to college here in the US, especially a top one, you're looking at a minimum of around $50,000 per year to do so.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

One-way fares start for as little as $10, with a top one-way walk-up fare of $330 (all flights must connect in Columbus, Ohio).

The New York Times

A game table has a reversible top: one side has a game board, the other is a solid honey color.

The New York Times

With a cylinder on top, one bar.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We have one chair, one dresser (with a TV on top), one closet (for Carol) and two folding tables.

The New York Times

The USA is quite a rich country, so I'm going to say a) the top one third.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a top one", ensure the context clearly defines the category being referenced. For example, "a top one" what? University, player, choice etc.

Common error

Avoid using "a top one" without sufficient context, as it can be vague. Instead, specify the category or area in which something excels.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a top one" functions as a descriptive phrase, often acting as a nominal or adjectival modifier. It's used to single out an entity as being among the best in a specified, or implied, category. As Ludwig points out, the phrase is usable in written English and is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Unknown

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a top one" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression to denote something as being among the best in a given category. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and validity. Its usage spans multiple contexts, including news, media, science, and academia. While it's often used informally, it's also present in neutral registers, making it versatile for a variety of writing situations. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to provide context to specify the category being referenced when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a leading option

Focuses on the concept of being at the front or in the lead.

a premier choice

Highlights the high quality and superior status of the choice.

a first-rate selection

Emphasizes the excellent quality and high standard of the selection.

an excellent candidate

Implies suitability and high potential, particularly for a role or position.

a superior alternative

Stresses the advantage of this option over others.

a distinguished possibility

Highlights the notability and positive attributes of the possibility.

a noteworthy contender

Implies it's worth paying attention to or considering seriously.

an exceptional example

Stresses that it’s an outstanding instance of something.

a prime selection

Indicates that it’s a high-quality or top-level selection.

a prominent figure

Highlights the importance and visibility of the person.

FAQs

How can I use "a top one" in a sentence?

Use "a top one" to indicate something is among the best in a specific category. For example, "That restaurant is definitely "a top one" in the city for Italian food".

What's a more formal way to say "a top one"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "a leading option" or "a premier choice". These alternatives provide a similar meaning but with a slightly elevated level of formality.

Can I use "a top one" to describe people?

Yes, you can, but be mindful of the context. It's often used to describe someone who excels in a particular field. For example, "He's considered "a top one" in his profession".

Which is better, "a top one" or "one of the top"?

Both are acceptable, but "one of the top" typically implies a group, while ""a top one"" suggests a single, outstanding entity. The choice depends on whether you're highlighting a specific item or a category.