an acceptable one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an acceptable one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that meets a certain standard or is deemed satisfactory in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the proposals, we found that option B was an acceptable one for our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

He has moved a good way from his first defiance, agreeing in principle to some kind of UNSCOM-plus solution (though not, as yet, an acceptable one) but insisting on a two-month deadline, which is also unacceptable.

The Economist

The government's decision to greenlight aviation expansion (Chris Grayling: decision on airport expansion to be made on Tuesday, theguardian.com, 23 October) is a predictable failure, but not an acceptable one.

The Guardian

"It may be a practical solution, but it's not an acceptable one.

The Guardian

They are a distraction, though perhaps an acceptable one, given the advantages.

The New York Times - Arts

But to many Jewish people – and plenty of others – he will not be an acceptable one.

The Guardian

One of them, Mr Ian Millan, said it was a compromise, but an acceptable one.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

There's a reason--if not an acceptable one--for some of the stinginess.

Huffington Post

It was more than enough to turn what might have been a highly successful seven-game trip into a merely acceptable one as the Yankees finished 4-3 after winning the first four games.

The New York Times - Sports

He said the museum wanted "to be a fully accessible site of public testimony," not a fully acceptable one.

The New York Times - Arts

Replacing the real interface thickness with a numerically acceptable one, while keeping the surface tension constant, can be justified based on the analysis of the equilibrium planar interface, but demands a change in the local part of the free energy.

Chemical Engineering Science

If a link is judged acceptable one based on the current teaching or learning material, the goal map is modified to accept the link.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating options, use "an acceptable one" to convey that a choice meets the necessary criteria, even if it's not the ideal option. This acknowledges limitations while still affirming suitability.

Common error

While "an acceptable one" is grammatically correct, overuse in formal contexts can make your writing sound uninspired. Try replacing it with stronger, more descriptive alternatives like "a satisfactory solution" or "a reasonable compromise" to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "an acceptable one" is as a nominal phrase functioning as a predicate nominative or object complement. It renames or describes a noun or pronoun, indicating that it meets a certain standard or requirement. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

24%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an acceptable one" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something that meets a minimum standard or requirement. Ludwig AI confirms this. While versatile, it's most prevalent in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral register. For formal writing, consider stronger alternatives like "a satisfactory solution" or "a reasonable compromise" to add impact and clarity. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and effective communication, as highlighted by the numerous examples available on Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a satisfactory option

This phrase focuses on meeting requirements or expectations, emphasizing fulfillment rather than inherent desirability.

a tolerable alternative

This suggests a less than ideal solution, but one that can be endured or accepted under certain circumstances.

a passable solution

This phrase highlights the adequacy of a solution, suggesting it meets the minimum requirements to be considered viable.

a reasonable compromise

This indicates an agreement where concessions have been made, resulting in an outcome that is fair and acceptable to all parties involved.

an adequate substitute

This highlights that the proposed alternative can replace and function in the same way of another element, although is not necessarily the preferred choice.

a permissible choice

This suggests that the choice is allowed and within certain regulation, although it may not be the best one.

a standard selection

This indicates that the option meets the criteria, being a commonly selected option in similar instances.

a fairly good deal

This indicates that the agreement is on the positive side, although it is not the best scenario.

a minimally invasive measure

This indicates that a procedure causes the least amount of damage, being tolerable when other treatments are not.

an okay response

This suggests that the response meets expectations, being at least at a minimum level of positive feedback.

FAQs

How can I use "an acceptable one" in a sentence?

You can use "an acceptable one" to refer to a solution, compromise, or outcome that meets a minimum standard or is considered satisfactory, as in, "While not ideal, the proposed plan is "an acceptable one" for now."

What phrases can I use instead of "an acceptable one"?

Alternatives to "an acceptable one" include "a satisfactory option", "a tolerable alternative", or "a reasonable compromise" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "an acceptable one" or "a satisfactory solution"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a satisfactory solution" might be more appropriate in formal writing. "An acceptable one" is generally used when acknowledging that something isn't perfect but still meets requirements. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it not appropriate to use "an acceptable one"?

Avoid using "an acceptable one" when you need to emphasize excellence or high quality. In such cases, opt for phrases like "the best option" or "an excellent choice" to highlight superior attributes.