for once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for once" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is happening or being done differently than usual, often implying a sense of surprise or relief. Example: "For once, he actually arrived on time to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Listen for once".

The Economist

For once, pragmatism won.

The Economist

Except for once.

The New York Times - Sports

(I'm filing early, for once).

The New Yorker

Joined up thinking for once.

Independent

For once, reality will bite.

Independent

Biden, for once, wasn't smiling.

The New York Times

FOR once, no cover-up.

The Economist

For once, this is justified.

The Economist

For once, Happy was happy.

The New York Times - Sports

For once, bipartisanship thrives.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for once" to highlight a situation that deviates noticeably from a usual pattern or expectation. This adds emphasis and can create a sense of surprise or relief in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "for once" when describing a situation that is merely different but not truly exceptional. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing seem less precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for once" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is happening differently than usual. As Ludwig AI confirms, it points to a rare exception or a first-time occurrence after repeated instances to the contrary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for once" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to highlight a deviation from a typical or expected pattern. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It often conveys a sense of surprise or relief. While primarily found in news and media contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various forms of communication. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain its impact and consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a change

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes the deviation from the usual.

in this instance

This alternative highlights a specific occasion that is different from the norm.

on this occasion

This alternative is similar to "in this instance" but provides a slightly more formal tone.

exceptionally

This alternative emphasizes the unusual nature of the situation.

uncharacteristically

This alternative emphasizes that the behavior is not typical of the subject.

surprisingly

This alternative highlights the unexpected nature of the event.

unusually

This alternative directly states that something is happening in an atypical manner.

for once in a blue moon

This alternative amplifies the rarity of the occurrence, adding emphasis to the exceptional nature.

in a departure from the norm

This alternative offers a more formal and descriptive way of expressing the deviation from the usual.

contrary to usual

This alternative emphasizes the contrast between the current event and the typical pattern or behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "for once" in a sentence?

You can use "for once" to indicate a deviation from a usual pattern or expectation, such as "For once, the weather is nice" or "For once, he agreed with me".

What are some alternatives to "for once"?

Alternatives to "for once" include "for a change", "in this instance", or "surprisingly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "for once" in formal writing?

While "for once" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "on this occasion" or "in this instance" may be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "for once" and "at last"?

"For once" emphasizes a deviation from a usual pattern, while "at last" indicates something happening after a long wait or delay. For example, "At last, the rain stopped" implies the rain was expected to stop, whereas "for once, the rain stopped" suggests it usually rains.