one press of a button

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one press of a button" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a simple action that triggers a result or function, often in the context of technology or automation. Example: "With one press of a button, you can start the coffee maker and enjoy a fresh cup in minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

With one press of a button, you see a map.

The New York Times - Tech

"They told us that one press of a button was enough to detonate everything," Ms. Bekoyeva said.

The New York Times

One press of a button and whoop, there go eight kids eyes!

TechCrunch

As with all Logitech Harmony remotes, the newest addition to the lineup can have you watching your favorite movie or show with one press of a button.

TechCrunch

Turning on my radio takes barely a second with one press of a button.

The Economist

This system has a useful Gas Station feature; one press of a button will tell you how many miles you can travel on your present tank.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

As you scroll through these listings, one press of the Record button schedules a future show for recording.

The New York Times - Tech

One of the teachers, the balding one, presses a button on a portable CD player.

The New Yorker

The cylindrical canisters have a built-in brush or puff on one end; a gentle tap or press of a button releases a single application.

The New York Times - Style

"… a late-1990s military craze for high-tech, multi-mission 'platforms.' That is, ships, planes and ground vehicles that can switch from one task to another with the press of a button.

Vice

MobileHelp is a small device that works "beyond the home" allowing your loved one to call for help at a press of a button.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one press of a button" to emphasize the ease and simplicity of activating a function or process. This is especially effective when describing user interfaces, automated systems, or features designed for convenience.

Common error

Avoid using "one press of a button" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement and prevent your writing from sounding monotonous. Try using synonyms like "single click" or "touch of a button" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one press of a button" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by describing how an action is performed. Ludwig shows that it often emphasizes the simplicity and ease of initiating an action or process.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one press of a button" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the simplicity and ease of performing an action, frequently related to technology and automation. As noted by Ludwig, its function is primarily adverbial, modifying verbs to describe how actions are executed. The phrase enjoys a neutral register and is often found in news and media. While examples are moderately frequent, varying the language with synonyms like "at the push of a button" is advisable. The phrase is a useful tool to highlight convenience and user-friendliness in descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the push of a button

Replaces "press" with "push", emphasizing the physical action more directly.

by simply pressing a button

Adds emphasis on the simplicity of the action by using "simply".

at the touch of a button

Highlights the sensitivity and ease of activation.

with a single click

Emphasizes the digital or computer-related nature of the action.

through a single button press

Changes the structure to focus on the action as a method.

with one button activation

Replaces "press" with "activation", highlighting the start of a process.

with a button's touch

Reorders the words for a slightly more poetic or stylized effect.

via a single button

Shortens the phrase, focusing on the button as the means of action.

upon button press

Uses a more formal tone, suitable for technical documentation.

just a button press away

Indicates that something is easily accessible or achievable.

FAQs

What does "one press of a button" mean?

The phrase "one press of a button" is used to describe how easily a function or action is performed, especially within technological or automated systems. It highlights simplicity and immediate results.

What can I say instead of "one press of a button"?

Alternatives include "at the push of a button", "with a single click", or "at the touch of a button" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "at the push of a button" instead of "one press of a button"?

Yes, "at the push of a button" is a valid alternative. While "one press of a button" focuses on the action, "at the push of a button" emphasizes the physical effort, albeit minimal.

When is it most appropriate to use "one press of a button"?

It is most appropriate when describing a feature or function designed for ease of use, particularly in technological devices or automated systems. This helps to underscore the user-friendliness of the device.