only one remaining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'only one remaining' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation in which there is only one option or choice left. For example: "We only have one remaining seat on this flight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now the Camanelli dance empire has dwindled to a a single Astaire franchise, the only one remaining on Long Island, with a 2,500-square-foot 2,500-square-foot 2,500-square-footve the CompUSA near Roosevelt Fieldance

The New York Times

There is only one remaining manufacturer of tetraethyl lead on earth.

The Guardian - Opinion

I recognise that sense of isolation, of being the only one remaining from the dozens that embarked on the same path.

The Guardian

With only one remaining fluent speaker, the Yaghan language is on the verge of dying out.

BBC

Yesterday the shares slumped on disappointment about possible bids for the company, with only one remaining predator seemingly still in the fray.

The Guardian - Business

There was only one remaining obstacle.

The Guardian

The York is the only one remaining.

The New York Times

The Wright-Phillips deal is now the only one remaining.

The Guardian - Sport

Neither has a date scheduled yet, with only one remaining sitting day left.

The Guardian

Charles Graner is the only one remaining in prison, serving ten years.

The New Yorker

The United States has only one remaining task in Iraq: to prevent civil war and the dismemberment of the country.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only one remaining" to clearly and concisely indicate that a group has been reduced to a single element, option, or individual.

Common error

Avoid using "only one remaining" when simpler phrasing like "one left" or "the last one" would suffice, especially in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only one remaining" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun, specifying that there is just a single entity left from a previous group. Ludwig AI validates this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

27%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only one remaining" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a single entity left after others have been removed or have ceased to exist. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and versatility. It is suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, media and scientific writing, where clarity and precision are paramount. While highly versatile and correct, avoid overuse in simple contexts where more casual phrasing is acceptable. Use it when you need to specify that something is the last of its kind in an emphatic way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the last remaining

Slightly more formal phrasing emphasizing finality.

the single remaining

Emphasizes singularity using "single".

the only survivor

Similar to "sole survivor", but can apply in diverse contexts, not just life-threatening ones.

the only existing

Focuses on the fact that nothing else like it is present or available.

sole survivor

Emphasizes survival and being the last existing member from a group.

the only continuing

Highlights uninterrupted existence or operation.

last one standing

Highlights resilience and endurance in a competitive situation.

just one left

More casual and conversational, indicating a small quantity.

final one extant

More formal and somewhat archaic alternative, stressing continued existence.

the lone holdout

Implies resistance or persistence against opposing forces or change.

FAQs

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

You can use "only one remaining" to indicate that a group has been reduced to a single item. For example, "After the storm, there was "only one remaining" house in the village".

What are some alternatives to "only one remaining"?

Alternatives include "sole survivor", "last one standing", or "the only survivor". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it correct to say "the only remaining one" instead of "only one remaining"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""only one remaining"" is generally more concise and common. "The only remaining one" can be used for emphasis.

In what contexts is "only one remaining" most appropriate?

"Only one remaining" is appropriate in formal and informal contexts when you need to emphasize the reduction to a single element, whether it's an object, person, or opportunity.