on a one-to-one basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a one-to-one basis" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe something that is done or experienced individually with one person at a time, rather than in a group setting. Example: Our company offers personalized training on a one-to-one basis, allowing each employee to focus on their specific needs and goals.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yet we can still compete on a one-to-one basis against these guys".

The New York Times - Sports

Alternatively, it may be best to approach someone on a one-to-one basis, in private.

The Guardian

All the training was done on a one-to-one basis: he never met other agents.

The Guardian

If this is the case, I would speak to them on a one-to-one basis.

The Guardian - Money

Unlike other mentors, crowds do things they would never do on a one-to-one basis.

The Guardian - Money

Zucker said NBC would instead meet advertisers in May on a one-to-one basis.

The Guardian

Interactions with the locals are on a one-to-one basis now, making any success more worthwhile.

The Guardian - Tech

Over half of the players were interviewed on a one-to-one basis as part of the RFL's investigation.

The Guardian - Sport

I want to work with them on a one-to-one basis to give them a new life.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I feel I am now able to give the patient the time they require on a one-to-one basis".

The Guardian

"He may be a decent person on a one-to-one basis, but that's not the issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a one-to-one basis" when you want to emphasize personalized attention or direct interaction between two individuals. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "on a one-to-one basis" when describing interactions that involve more than two parties or interactions that are not direct and personal. For group settings, consider using phrases like "in groups" or "collectively."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a one-to-one basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe how an action is performed or how a relationship exists. As confirmed by Ludwig, it correctly specifies that interactions occur individually, between two parties only.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a one-to-one basis" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that emphasizes direct, personalized interaction between two parties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for describing situations where individual attention and direct engagement are key. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase lends a formal tone while clearly indicating a specific mode of interaction. For less formal contexts, alternatives like ""one-on-one"" can be considered. Remembering to restrict its use to scenarios involving solely two individuals will ensure accuracy. Overall, "on a one-to-one basis" remains a reliable and precise way to convey personalized attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

One-on-one

A shorter, more casual way to say the same thing.

One on one

A variation in spacing and capitalization but semantically identical.

Person-to-person

Highlights the personal exchange more explicitly.

Face to face

Stresses the physical presence and interaction.

Individually

Focuses on the person as a separate entity, omitting the interaction aspect.

In person

Emphasizes a face-to-face encounter, but doesn't necessarily imply individual attention.

Directly

Highlights immediacy and lack of intermediaries, but may not involve personal interaction.

In a personal setting

Emphasizes a private environment rather than direct interaction

In private

Indicates confidentiality, not necessarily a single interaction.

Privately

Similar to 'in private' highlighting confidentiality.

FAQs

What does "on a one-to-one basis" mean?

The phrase "on a one-to-one basis" means involving direct, individual interaction between two parties. It implies personalized attention or a direct exchange.

How can I use "on a one-to-one basis" in a sentence?

You can use "on a one-to-one basis" to describe interactions. For example: "The therapist works with patients "one-on-one"." or "We offer tutoring "individually" to cater to each student's needs."

Which is more appropriate, "one-on-one" or "on a one-to-one basis"?

Both ""one-on-one"" and "on a one-to-one basis" are acceptable, but "on a one-to-one basis" is slightly more formal. "One-on-one" is often used in more casual contexts.

What's the difference between "on a one-to-one basis" and "in person"?

"On a one-to-one basis" emphasizes the individual interaction and personalized attention. "In person" simply means face-to-face, without necessarily implying individual attention. You can meet in person without interacting on a "on a one-to-one basis".