every single word

USAGE SUMMARY

"every single word" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the importance of each individual word in a sentence or phrase. For example, "I need to pay close attention to every single word in this speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Every single word.

The New York Times

I meant every single word of it.

The New York Times

I believed every single word.

The Guardian

I understood every single word of it.

The New York Times - Books

Every single word is well-judged.

The Guardian - Sport

They want to hear every single word".

The New York Times

"I cared about every single word," she says.

University of California, Berkeley

I don't recall every single word I said to him".

The New York Times - Sports

But I can't recall every single word I said.

The New York Times

And then the lawyers were splitting every single word.

The New York Times - Sports

I can't recall every single word that was said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "every single word" when you want to stress the importance of each individual word in a statement, instruction, or text. This emphasizes thoroughness and careful attention.

Common error

Avoid using "every single word" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or hyperbolic. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "every single word" functions primarily as an intensifier or emphatic determiner. It modifies a noun (usually referring to text or speech) to highlight that each individual word is important and should not be overlooked. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "every single word" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used for emphasis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights the importance of each individual word in a given context. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources, it serves to ensure meticulous attention and prevent misinterpretation. While alternatives like "each and every word" or "all the words" exist, "every single word" maintains its unique strength in conveying thoroughness. Remember to use it judiciously to prevent redundancy and maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

each and every word

Replaces "every" with "each and every" for added emphasis.

each individual word

Replaces "every single" with "each individual" maintaining the emphasis.

every word

Omits "single", making it less emphatic but still complete.

all the words

A simpler, less emphatic way of saying the same thing.

the complete wording

Highlights the precise way something is expressed.

all of the vocabulary

Uses "vocabulary" instead of "word", changing the focus to the whole set of words.

the entirety of the text

Shifts focus to the complete text rather than individual words.

down to the last syllable

Emphasizes meticulous attention to even the smallest parts of speech.

every last detail

Expands the scope to include more than just words, emphasizing thoroughness.

the whole statement

Focuses on the entire statement, losing the emphasis on individual words.

FAQs

How can I use "every single word" in a sentence?

You can use "every single word" to emphasize the importance of each word, as in, "The contract requires you to read "every single word" carefully."

What's the difference between "every word" and "every single word"?

"Every word" is a general statement about all words. "Every single word" adds emphasis, stressing that no word should be overlooked. It highlights thoroughness.

What can I say instead of "every single word"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "each and every word", "all the words", or "each individual word". The best choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "every single word"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. The phrase simply emphasizes the importance or inclusion of each word in a given context.