one-time purchase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one-time purchase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a transaction that occurs only once, without any recurring payments or subscriptions. Example: "This software is available for a one-time purchase, meaning you won't have to pay any monthly fees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Starting in July, banks will need explicit permission from customers before allowing them to use their debit cards to spend more than they have in their bank accounts on a one-time purchase.

The New York Times

Normally $40 for a one-time purchase, this 1.7-ounce jar is on sale this Prime Day for under $20.

Huffington Post

On its rate card, Lucky charges $165,000 for the one-time purchase of a two-page, four-color ad; companies that advertise frequently in the magazine will pay less than that.

The New York Times - Tech

Furthermore, packaged software is a one-time purchase (between $90 and $180).

The New York Times - Tech

And even under the best circumstances, epinephrine auto-injectors aren't a one-time purchase: an allergic child needs them both at home and at school, and they expire.

The New York Times

If you want to turn off the ads, it's $4.99 (a one-time purchase).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

A majority of sales on Amazon are one-time purchases, and dynamic pricing is fundamental to how the company operates.

The New York Times - Tech

While driving one-time purchases to the services, these on-site portals keep users sequestered on Facebook and in turn don't allow them to browse other options offered by the ticketing sites.

TechCrunch

A company can also make spot transactions, one-time purchases to try a new supplier or quick buys that fill a need.

The New York Times

If, for example, Subscribe & Save prices remained static, those customers could miss out when prices go down for one-time purchases of the same products.

The New York Times - Tech

The costs are topping $7 billion a year, although that number is a bit deceptive because it includes one-time purchases for sophisticated equipment like armored vehicles, helicopters and communications equipment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing pricing models, clearly differentiate between a "one-time purchase" and subscription-based options to highlight the long-term value or cost-effectiveness of each.

Common error

Avoid using "one-time purchase" when a subscription or recurring payment is actually required. Always clarify if there are any hidden fees or future costs associated with the purchase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one-time purchase" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adjective to describe a product, service, or transaction model. It indicates that the purchase involves a single, non-recurring payment. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "one-time purchase" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a single, non-recurring transaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki articles, to clearly differentiate a payment structure from subscriptions or other recurring fees. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that there are no hidden fees or future costs to avoid misleading customers. Alternatives like "single purchase" or "one-off purchase" can be used for variety, though ""one-time purchase"" is generally the most precise and widely understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Single purchase

Emphasizes the singular nature of the transaction, a direct synonym.

One-off purchase

Highlights the isolated nature of the purchase.

Non-recurring purchase

Focuses on the absence of repeated charges or subscriptions.

Single transaction

Broader term emphasizing the single instance of a business exchange.

Isolated purchase

Stresses the lack of connection to other purchases.

One-time payment

Highlights the payment aspect occurring only once.

Lump-sum purchase

Emphasizes a single, complete payment made at once.

Unique purchase

Indicates the purchase is distinct and not part of a series.

Once-only purchase

Stresses the purchase is only valid for one instance or occasion.

Non-subscription purchase

Contrasts with subscription models, focusing on the lack of recurring fees.

FAQs

How to use "one-time purchase" in a sentence?

You can use "one-time purchase" to describe a product or service that requires a single payment, as opposed to recurring fees. For example, "The software is available as a "one-time purchase", so you only pay once".

What can I say instead of "one-time purchase"?

You can use alternatives like "single purchase", "one-off purchase", or "non-recurring purchase" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "one-time purchase" or "one-time buy"?

"One-time purchase" is more formal and frequently used in business and technical contexts. "One-time buy" is less common but understandable.

What's the difference between a "one-time purchase" and a subscription?

A ""one-time purchase"" involves a single payment for a product or service, granting permanent access or ownership. A subscription requires recurring payments (monthly, annually) for continued access.