one thing to do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one thing to do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific task or action that needs to be accomplished. Example: "In this situation, there is only one thing to do: we must act quickly to resolve the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's only one thing to do: put on a show!

The Guardian - Film

"One thing to do is to run advertising campaigns on the sites.

The New York Times

One thing to do is fight to get these healthier kinds of products on supermarket shelves.

Huffington Post

"It's one thing to do this right in our community.

The New York Times

Which leaves only one thing to do – let Louis Armstrong play us out.

The Guardian - Sport

Photograph: Alicia Canter Of course, before the bands start, there's really only one thing to do.

The Guardian - Music

"They picked one thing to do and are doing it better than anyone else".

The New Yorker

There was only one thing to do: move into the tower.

The New York Times

When its livelihood suddenly disappeared, Image Entertainment had one thing to do.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, there was only one thing to do: Pray that the plants had shriveled to death.

The New York Times

"You had one thing to do," Dima said, before hanging up.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one thing to do" to clearly and concisely indicate the most important or only action required in a situation. It can simplify complex scenarios for your audience.

Common error

While "one thing to do" is useful, avoid using it repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with alternatives like "the next step" or "the only option" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one thing to do" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific action or task that must be performed or considered. It typically appears in contexts where a decision needs to be made or a problem needs to be solved. Ludwig confirms this is a valid phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "one thing to do" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that serves to simplify situations by pinpointing the most crucial action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse communication needs. While effective, it's advisable to diversify your phrasing with alternatives like "the only option" to prevent repetition. This ensures clarity and engagement in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the only course of action

Focuses on the limited number of options available.

the sole option

Emphasizes that there is only one possibility.

nothing else to do

Highlights the lack of alternative choices.

the only alternative

Similar to 'the sole option' but puts emphasis on the option being an alternative to something.

the only way forward

Suggests a path or direction that must be taken.

the remaining task

Focuses on a specific job or duty that needs completion.

the only thing left

Indicates that all other options have been exhausted.

the necessary step

Emphasizes the importance and required nature of the action.

the unavoidable action

Highlights that the action cannot be prevented.

the imperative measure

Implies a crucial or urgent action that must be taken.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "one thing to do" for variety?

Alternatives include "the only option", "the sole alternative", or "the only way forward", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "one thing to do"?

Yes, "one thing to do" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "one thing to do"?

Use "one thing to do" when you want to emphasize that there is a single, clear action that needs to be taken, especially in situations with limited options or urgent needs.

What's the difference between "one thing to do" and "the next step"?

"One thing to do" emphasizes the singularity and often the necessity of an action, while "the next step" implies a sequential action in a process, not necessarily the only one.