one specific

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one specific" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize a particular item or detail among others. Example: "I have one specific goal in mind for this project that I want to achieve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I want to do really well on one specific ballot in one specific year and I want to tie that to one specific ballot initiative".

TechCrunch

Yet, Austin has his eye on one specific offer.

Huffington Post

One specific answer proved instructive.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's not one specific thing.

The Guardian

He loved one specific person.

The New Yorker

One specific comment was: "Cite your sources.

The New York Times

In one specific, he was quite successful.

The Guardian

They are assigned to one specific facility.

The New York Times

I didn't use any one specific technique.

The Guardian - Film

Identify one specific case to investigate.

The New York Times

"But I can't point to any one specific direction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one specific" when you want to clearly emphasize that you are referring to a single, identifiable item or instance among many possibilities. This can help sharpen focus and prevent ambiguity.

Common error

While "one specific" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "a particular" or "a designated" for a more refined tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one specific" functions as an adjectival modifier, adding emphasis and precision to the noun it precedes. It highlights a singular and distinct instance, as supported by Ludwig's numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "one specific" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjectival modifier that emphasizes a singular, identifiable item or instance. According to Ludwig, it is widely used in news, science, and professional contexts to add precision and clarity. While acceptable in most settings, it is especially useful when you need to highlight a particular element and avoid ambiguity. More formal alternatives like "a particular" might be preferred in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one particular

Adds a degree of emphasis compared to "a particular", stressing a singular instance.

a particular

More general and widely applicable, referring to something distinct but not necessarily emphasized.

a distinct

Focuses on the separateness and clear identifiability of the item.

a certain

Implies that the item is known, though not necessarily named.

a definite

Highlights the clarity and unambiguous nature of the item.

a unique

Similar to singular but emphasizes the unmatched quality of the item.

a precise

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness.

a singular

Highlights the uniqueness and exceptional nature of the item.

an individual

Focuses on the separateness and distinct existence of an item or entity.

a specialized

Suggests an item or approach tailored for a specific purpose or context.

FAQs

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

You can use "one specific" to emphasize a particular item or detail. For instance, "I have "one specific goal" in mind for this project", highlights a single objective.

What are some alternatives to saying "one specific"?

You can use alternatives such as "a particular", "one particular", or "a certain" depending on the specific context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

Is it better to use "one specific" or "a specific"?

"One specific" is used to emphasize singularity, while "a specific" is a more general reference to something particular. Use "one specific" when the singularity is important to the meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "one specific" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "one specific" when you need to highlight that you are referring to a single, identifiable item or instance. This is especially useful to avoid ambiguity or to focus attention on a particular element.