it is only once

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence 'it is only once' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something happens or is done not frequently, just one time. For example: "I know travelling to the Maldives is expensive, but it's only once in a lifetime - let's do it!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Yet, as her close acquaintance Roland Barthes said, it is only once the voice loses its origin that writing may begin.

The Guardian - Books

It is only once we label the NRA and any of its supporters as an extreme fringe group, that represents the interests of gun manufactures, will we be able to achieve our goal of safer communities in America.

Huffington Post

Floyd Mayweather Sr believes it is only once his son has retired that his genius will be truly appreciated.

The Guardian - Sport

Sometimes it is only once a non-sex worker is killed that the police take an investigation seriously.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is only once you climb onto it, through a small entry point at one corner, that its beauty becomes apparent.

The New York Times - Arts

We see the pair romping around the surrounding countryside happily and unselfconsciously enough but it is only once they get indoors that things turn sour.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

After all, they argue, it was only once the state relaxed its grip that a world-beating ethanol industry came into being.

The Economist

"It was only once.

The New Yorker

"But it's only once a year, and lets us discover our local food traditions".

The New York Times

It's only once they've closed the door that they begin to chat openly.

The Guardian

It's only once our interview is over that I realise he's serious.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is only once", ensure the context clearly indicates what happens or is relevant at that specific time. This clarifies the condition or the timing of the event.

Common error

A common mistake is using "it is only once" when the situation doesn't genuinely benefit from highlighting the singular nature of an event. Avoid using it simply as a filler; ensure it adds meaningful emphasis to the infrequency or uniqueness you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only once" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the singularity or infrequency of an event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is only once" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase, typically used to emphasize the singularity or infrequency of an event. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows that the phrase is versatile, appearing in news, scientific, and business contexts, maintaining a neutral tone suitable for varied audiences. Though its usage is correct, be mindful not to overuse it as a filler. The phrase is most effective when the uniqueness or infrequency is critical to your message. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its correct usage can enhance the impact of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it happens just once

This alternative replaces "is only" with "happens just", focusing on the occurrence of the event.

it occurs only one time

This alternative uses more formal language, replacing "once" with "one time" and "is" with "occurs".

it is a one-time occurrence

This changes the structure to emphasize that the event is singular and not recurring.

it's a unique occasion

This option emphasizes the singularity and special nature of the event.

it comes around only once

This alternative uses the idiom "comes around" to suggest a cyclical but infrequent event.

it is a solitary instance

This phrase uses more formal and descriptive language to highlight the singular nature of the event.

it is merely a single event

This alternative emphasizes the limited nature of the event, suggesting it's not part of a pattern.

it is just a single time

This option simplifies the original phrase while retaining the core meaning of singularity.

it transpires solely once

The alternative is more emphatic and uses advanced vocabulary for a more formal effect.

it is exceptionally rare

This phrase shifts the focus to the rarity of the event rather than strictly limiting it to a single occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "it is only once" in a sentence?

Use "it is only once" to emphasize the unique or infrequent nature of an action or event. For example, "It is only once you start looking at houses that you realize what you do and don't like".

What are some alternatives to "it is only once"?

You can use alternatives such as "it happens just once", "it occurs only one time", or "it is a one-time occurrence" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "it is only once" and "it was only once"?

"It is only once" refers to a general truth or a present condition, while "it was only once" refers to a specific event in the past. The choice depends on whether you're discussing a past instance or a current perspective.

What does "it is only once" emphasize in a sentence?

"It is only once" emphasizes the singularity or infrequency of an event, decision, or opportunity, adding weight to your statement by highlighting its significance.