not a single thing

USAGE SUMMARY

"not a single thing" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize that there is absolutely nothing present, or that nothing at all has happened. Example: "After searching through the entire house, I couldn't find not a single thing that belonged to me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Not a single thing".

The New York Times

"Nothing involving me, not a single thing.

The Guardian - Sport

Except for thoughts, not a single thing.

The New York Times

And there's not a single thing about it that's hip.

The New York Times

VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN: Because not a single thing he said is accurate.

The New York Times

There was not a single thing anyone would be able to do about it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

There isn't a single thing about this woman that doesn't annoy me".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

There isn't a single thing about his appearance or demeanour that could be mistaken for trendy.

The Guardian - Opinion

When I got home I ventured into my garden and there wasn't a single thing that was flowering or looking nice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Many programmers aren't hackers, and there isn't a single thing wrong with that.

TechCrunch

There isn't a single thing left to watch on Syfy with SGU and Caprica gone.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not a single thing" to emphasize the complete absence of something, creating a stronger impact than simply saying "nothing".

Common error

While "not a single thing" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more concise alternatives like "nothing" or "none" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not a single thing" functions as an intensifier to emphasize the absence of something. It serves to negate the existence of even one item, aspect, or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts for emphasis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not a single thing" is a common phrase used to emphatically express the complete absence of something. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media. When writing, be mindful to use it to stress a lack or absence. Although versatile, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing, opting for more concise alternatives when appropriate. The frequency analysis indicates its common usage, confirming its place in standard English. The phrase is a powerful tool for emphasis, highlighting the non-existence of something in a definitive manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Absolutely nothing

Emphasizes the complete absence of something; it is a more emphatic version.

Nothing whatsoever

Highlights the total lack of something, adding extra emphasis to 'nothing'.

Not one thing

Focuses on the absence of even a single item or element.

Not anything at all

Stresses the complete absence of something with a slightly more elaborate structure.

Nothing in the slightest

Indicates that something is not present even to a small degree.

Not a darn thing

An informal and emphatic way to express the absence of something.

Zero

A concise term indicating a complete lack of something.

None whatsoever

Emphasizes the complete absence of something, particularly when referring to a countable noun.

An utter lack

Implies the absence of something in a more formal or descriptive manner.

De nada

A Spanish loanword expressing "nothing" or "it's nothing", indicating a lack of consequence or importance.

FAQs

How can I use "not a single thing" in a sentence?

You can use "not a single thing" to emphasize the complete absence of something. For example, "There was "not a single thing" he could do to change the outcome".

What alternatives are there to "not a single thing"?

Alternatives include "absolutely nothing", "nothing whatsoever", or "not anything at all". The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis.

Is it better to say "nothing" or "not a single thing"?

"Not a single thing" adds emphasis to the absence, making it stronger than simply saying "nothing". Use "not a single thing" when you want to highlight the complete lack of something.

What's the difference between "not one thing" and "not a single thing"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "not a single thing" can often sound more emphatic and definitive than "not one thing". Both emphasize the lack of even one item or aspect.