only one voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only one voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the singularity or uniqueness of a perspective or opinion in a discussion or argument. Example: "In this debate, we must remember that there is only one voice that truly matters: the voice of the people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jenkins said the Corinthian executives each represent only one voice on their accrediting boards and are not allowed to vote on or discuss matters related to their company's schools.

Huffington Post

While Mr. Hayami's was only one voice on the Bank of Japan's nine-member policy board, he was responsible for the board's decisions.

The New York Times

We try to hold firm to a sense of reality, but on a vulnerable day it can take only one voice suggesting that we are being "naive" for the whole edifice to crumble.

The Telegraph

So it comes as a surprise when James says that A Brief History of Seven Killings, which won the Man Booker prize 2015 on Tuesday night, began life with only one voice, one character, to whom the story wholly belonged.

The Guardian - Books

Around the section of the Huffington Post newsroom devoted to the Entertainment, Celebrity and TV verticals, there was only one voice quietly humming out of each editor's headphones on Wednesday: Taylor Swift.

Huffington Post

Well, I'm only one voice amongst many.

The Guardian

"In Cuba there is only one voice.

The New York Times

"Now it is only one voice in the chorus.

The New York Times - Arts

A lot of political drama has only one voice: cynicism.

The Guardian

After a merger the combined entity will speak with only one voice.

Columbia University

Each partbook contained the notation of only one voice, or part.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only one voice" to emphasize the lack of diverse opinions or the dominance of a single viewpoint in a discussion or context. For example, "In this organization, there is often only one voice heard during decision-making."

Common error

Avoid using "only one voice" when you actually mean a unified message delivered through multiple channels. "Only one voice" implies a lack of diversity, not a coordinated effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only one voice" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It emphasizes the singularity or lack of diversity in opinions or perspectives, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only one voice" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression. Ludwig confirms its prevalent use across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media. It serves to underscore the absence of diverse perspectives or the dominance of a single opinion. When employing this phrase, it is crucial to ensure it accurately reflects a singularity of viewpoint rather than a unified, coordinated message. The phrase's neutral register renders it appropriate for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one distinct voice

Emphasizes clarity and individuality of the speaker.

a singular voice

Emphasizes the unique characteristic of the sound.

a lone voice

Highlights the isolation of the speaker.

the sole perspective

Emphasizes that there are no other viewpoints.

a single perspective

Focuses on viewpoint rather than vocal expression.

the only opinion

Highlights the singularity of the view.

a solitary opinion

Emphasizes the isolated nature of the belief.

a unique viewpoint

Highlights the distinctiveness of the outlook.

a solitary sound

Highlights the loneliness of the audio expression.

exclusive viewpoint

Emphasizes that the perspective is limited to a particular group or individual.

FAQs

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

You can use "only one voice" to indicate a lack of diverse opinions or the dominance of a single perspective, such as: "In that regime, there was "only one voice" allowed in the media."

What are some alternatives to "only one voice"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a single perspective", "one distinct voice", or "a lone voice".

Is it better to have "only one voice" or many voices in a discussion?

It depends on the goal. "Only one voice" can signify control or a lack of dissenting opinions. However, multiple voices usually contribute to a more robust and balanced discussion.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "only one voice"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight the singularity of an opinion, the lack of diverse viewpoints, or the dominance of a single source of information. For example, to suggest the presence of a single dominant authority.