number one

USAGE SUMMARY

"number one" is a perfectly acceptable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something or someone is the most important, the top choice, etc. For example, "My number one priority is to get this project finished on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're Number One.

The New Yorker

You're Number One.

The New Yorker

Daughter Number One.

The New York Times

Japan As Number One.

The Economist

Number One.

Columbia University

Remember "Japan as Number One"?

The Economist

This is number one.

Columbia University

Example number one.

Yale University

Proclamation number one.

Princeton University

Peru number one.

Cornell University

Possibility number one.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "number one" to indicate a top position or priority, ensure the context is clear. It's highly effective in rankings or lists.

Common error

Avoid using "number one" excessively in formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "primary" or "chief" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number one" primarily functions as a noun or adjective. As a noun, it denotes the highest rank or position. As an adjective, it describes something that is foremost or of utmost importance, as supported by Ludwig's examples and analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "number one" is a versatile expression used to denote the highest rank, priority, or importance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions both as a noun and an adjective. Its usage is widespread across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Academia, reflecting its neutral register. While grammatically correct, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in certain professional settings. Common errors include overuse in formal contexts, where terms like "primary" or "principal" might be more appropriate. Overall, "number one" is a common and widely understood phrase for emphasizing superiority or significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the best

Simple superlative form indicating superior quality or rank.

topmost

Refers to the highest in position, rank, or importance.

chief

Implies the most important or influential position.

foremost

Emphasizes being at the front or in the leading position.

leading

Indicates being in the lead or at the forefront.

prime

Suggests being of the highest quality or value.

principal

Highlights the main or most important aspect.

paramount

Stresses the supreme importance or significance.

preeminent

Denotes surpassing all others in rank or excellence.

top-tier

Describes being among the highest level or rank.

FAQs

How can I use "number one" in a sentence?

"Number one" can be used as a noun to refer to the top position or as an adjective to describe the most important thing. For example, "She is my "top priority"" or "This is our "main goal"".

What's a more formal alternative to "number one"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "primary", "principal", or "chief" depending on the intended meaning. These options provide a more professional tone.

Is it correct to say 'the number one' or just 'number one'?

Both "the number one" and "number one" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The inclusion of "the" can add emphasis, but it's often optional and depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "number one" and "top priority"?

While both phrases indicate importance, ""top priority"" specifically refers to something that needs immediate attention or action. "Number one" can be more general, simply indicating the highest rank or importance without necessarily implying urgency.