in a single shot

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a single shot" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to mean something that is done quickly, efficiently, or in one attempt. For example, "She finished the race in a single shot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The whole story is told in a single shot.

The Guardian - Film

It was described as Brexit in a single shot.

The Guardian

I wanted to do it in a single shot.

The New York Times

But few could or would invest billions in a single shot.

The Economist

Editing permits highly dramatic effects that could never be staged in a single shot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each was taken in a single shot, but only this one-minute cameo survives.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Reclosers in terrestrial systems operate in a "single-shot" scheme on live-bus/dead-line post-fault conditions.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Initially, when liquid helium is present, the two coldest stages of the ADR will operate in a single-shot mode to cool the detectors from 1.3 K.

Cryogenics

When playing against a random opponent, as in a single-shot game, the best strategy is to defect.

Plosone

By using an array of two-dimensional (2D) detectors, SCOS has a broad field-of-view in a single-shot.

Biomedical Optics Express

The detector operating at temperatures below 1 K was able to perform single-THz photon counting by relying on photon-to-plasmon and plasmon-to-charge conversion, followed by charge measurement in a single-shot mode.

F1000Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a single shot" to emphasize efficiency or that something was accomplished quickly and directly, often without needing further attempts. This can add impact when describing processes or achievements.

Common error

Avoid using "in a single shot" when describing complex scenarios that inherently require multiple steps or phases. This phrase is most effective when highlighting simplicity and directness, and misapplying it can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a single shot" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate how something is done. As per Ludwig AI, it means something is done quickly, efficiently, or in one attempt. It adds detail about the manner in which an action is performed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a single shot" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize efficiency and immediacy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies doing something quickly or in one attempt. Appearing frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register. To ensure clarity, use "in a single shot" when highlighting directness and simplicity, avoiding scenarios requiring multiple steps. Consider alternatives like ""at one go"" or ""in one attempt"" for nuanced meaning. By understanding these guidelines, writers can effectively use "in a single shot" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in one take

Focuses specifically on the context of film or video recording.

in one attempt

Emphasizes the singularity of the effort made.

at one go

Implies doing something completely and without interruption.

in a single action

Highlights the execution of something with a single, defined movement.

with one effort

Stresses the level of exertion involved in a solitary endeavor.

in one fell swoop

Suggests a sudden and decisive action.

all at once

Indicates simultaneity or the occurrence of multiple things together.

in a solitary instance

Underscores the isolated and unique nature of an event.

with a single application

Commonly used in technical or medical contexts, emphasizing a single instance of use.

in a flash

Conveys speed and immediacy in completing an action.

FAQs

How can I use "in a single shot" in a sentence?

You can use "in a single shot" to describe something done quickly or efficiently. For instance, "The director filmed the scene "in one take"" or "The company aimed to resolve the issue "in a single action"".

What's a good alternative to "in a single shot"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "in a single shot" include "at one go", "in one attempt", or "all at once". Each carries a slightly different nuance regarding the speed or completeness of the action.

When is it appropriate to use "in a single shot"?

"In a single shot" is appropriate when you want to emphasize that something was done efficiently and completely in one go. It is often used in contexts where efficiency or directness is valued.

Is there a difference between "in a single shot" and "with one effort"?

While both phrases imply doing something in one attempt, "in a single shot" often refers to processes or actions, whereas "with one effort" places more emphasis on the exertion required. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight efficiency or the amount of work involved.