lead a single life

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lead a single life" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is living without a romantic partner or is choosing to remain unmarried. Example: "After years of dating, she decided to lead a single life and focus on her career and personal growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The ease with which we can lead a single life is, as sociologists show, a social achievement in itself.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The title is borrowed from the 17th-century poet Thomas Traherne, a man said to have led a "single and devout life," and one who also achieved posthumous seclusion, for his writings evaded serious public notice until, in 1897, a browser at a London bookstall acquired for a few pennies a manuscript, previously unknown, of his beautiful meditations.

The New York Times - Books

"I lead a simple life".

Forbes

"A single thing, a single life".

The New York Times - Arts

Without a single life lost.

Huffington Post

This is one of the single most important things you can do to win at life and lead a life where you feel content and fulfilled.

WikiHow

These animals lead a decent life.

The New York Times

You lead a strange life.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We lead a boring life.

The Guardian

"I lead a dual life.

The New York Times

"I lead a healthy life.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lead a single life" when you want to emphasize the choice and active management of a life without a romantic partner. It suggests a conscious decision rather than a circumstance.

Common error

Avoid implying that leading a single life is inherently negative or synonymous with loneliness. The phrase should not be used to perpetuate the stereotype that single individuals are necessarily unhappy or unfulfilled.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lead a single life" functions as a verbal phrase where 'lead' is the verb and 'a single life' is the direct object. It describes the action of living in a particular state or condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lead a single life" is a grammatically sound and widely accepted way to describe living without a romantic partner. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage. While primarily found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse applications. When using this phrase, it's important to avoid negative connotations associated with loneliness and instead emphasize the independence and active choice it often represents. Alternatives like "live independently" or "embrace solitude" can be used to fine-tune the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Live independently

Focuses on the autonomy and self-reliance of living without a partner.

Live solo

Emphasizes living alone, without explicitly mentioning relationship status.

Embrace solitude

Highlights the positive aspects of being alone and finding contentment in it.

Remain unmarried

Specifically refers to the state of not being married.

Stay unattached

Implies a lack of romantic commitments or relationships.

Fly solo

Suggests independence and self-reliance in navigating life.

Go it alone

Emphasizes self-sufficiency and handling life's challenges independently.

Be on one's own

Simply states the condition of not having a partner or companion.

Keep to oneself

Highlights a preference for privacy and limited social interaction.

Enjoy singlehood

Positively emphasizes the benefits and pleasures of being single.

FAQs

What does it mean to "lead a single life"?

To "lead a single life" means to live without a romantic partner, often by choice, focusing on personal independence and self-sufficiency. It emphasizes the active management of one's life while unmarried.

Is there a negative connotation associated with "lead a single life"?

While the phrase itself is neutral, avoid using it in contexts that imply loneliness or unhappiness. Focus on the empowering aspects of independence and self-reliance. Alternatives like "live independently" can help maintain a positive tone.

What are some alternatives to "lead a single life"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "live solo", "remain unmarried", or "embrace solitude". Each alternative slightly shifts the focus or connotation.

How to use "lead a single life" in a sentence?

You can say, "After years of dating, she decided to "lead a single life" and focus on her career." or "Sociologists note that the ease with which we can "lead a single life" is a modern social achievement."