one question only

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one question only" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to specify that you are allowed to ask just a single question, often in a context where multiple questions might be expected. Example: "I appreciate your time, but I have one question only regarding the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Instigated by Giorgio Armani in the '80s, elevated, or at least rammed into must-see-TV status by Joan Rivers on E!, the carpet existed for the answer to one question and one question only, "Who are you wearing?" When I was Fashion Director at InStyle we lived for it.

Forbes

The logician thinks a moment, then asks one question only.

The Guardian

Ireland's right of self-determination applies to one question only – whether Ireland should become united.

The Guardian - Opinion

He said he would answer one question only – from the floor someone asked if he ever used personal experience in his books.

The Guardian - Books

It has been straightforward, featuring one question and one question only, and most of them have been asked it by now, at their various media appearances.

The Guardian - Sport

DR. HANS LATERNSER (Counsel for General Staff and High Command of the German Armed Forces): Mr. President, I should like to clarify one question only which has arisen during the cross examination.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

If this were a normal case, the jury would be asked to answer one question, and only one question: based on the evidence, did Snowden steal government secrets and intentionally disclose them?

The Guardian - Opinion

Each year, one question, posed only to smokers of manufactured cigarettes aged 16 years plus, asks which brand of cigarettes they smoke.

Addiction

But because there's only one question, phrased in only one way, it's not clear how that breaks down.

The Guardian

Of the 25 questions that went forward to the final prioritisation workshop, only one question was asked only by people with dementia or their carers.

Age and Ageing

There is only one question on everyone's mind.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "one question only", make sure the context underscores the importance or pertinence of that specific question above others.

Common error

Avoid using redundant phrasing such as "just one question only". The word "only" already implies a limitation to one, making "just" unnecessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one question only" functions as an emphasizer, clarifying that only a single question will be asked or addressed. It’s frequently used to set limits, as shown by Ludwig AI in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "one question only" serves to clearly define the scope of an inquiry, limiting it to a single question. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and versatile, fitting into a range of contexts from news articles to academic discussions. Although "one question only" is correct, be mindful of potential redundancy by avoiding expressions like "just one question only". Related alternatives such as ""a single question"" or ""just one question"" can add nuance to your writing. Ensure its apt use by prioritizing clarity and concision in your communication. Top sources that employ this phrasing are The Guardian and The New York Times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just one question

Adds a sense of restriction or limitation on the number of questions.

only a single question

Reiterates that there are no further inquiries beyond the one mentioned.

the sole question

Highlights that this is the only question to be considered.

a single question

Emphasizes the singularity of the inquiry.

a single query alone

Similar to a single question, reinforcing its exclusivity.

one solitary question

Highlights the isolation or uniqueness of the question.

one isolated question

Emphasizes the lack of related inquiries.

the question only

Simplifies the phrase while maintaining the focus on the single question.

a unique question

Stresses the distinctiveness of the inquiry.

a primary question

Indicates the most important question.

FAQs

How can I use "one question only" in a sentence?

You can use "one question only" to emphasize a restriction. For example, "I have "one question only" about the budget."

What's a more formal way to say "one question only"?

While "one question only" is acceptable, in a more formal context you could say "I have "a single question"" or "I have "just one question"" to maintain clarity.

Is it grammatically correct to say "one question only"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and it’s usage across reputable sources. However, ensure it fits the tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "one question" and "one question only"?

"One question" simply indicates a single inquiry. "One question only" emphasizes that there are no further questions or that you are limiting yourself to just that inquiry. Consider the nuances of these options based on context.