only one working

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only one working" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that there is a single item or person that is functioning or operational among others that are not. Example: "Out of all the machines in the lab, the old printer is the only one working."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

But Hess wasn't the only one working on this problem.

MIT Technology Review

Dr. McCollum's group was not the only one working on finding a fourth vitamin.

The New York Times

It's fine if you're the only one working on this contract.

TechCrunch

Here's hoping I'm not the only one working on his second 30,000-mile Ford GT.

Forbes

This recruiter will be the only one working on the job assignment.

Forbes

Ticlr isn't the only one working on improving the gift-giving process.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

There were, I counted, 10 red frocks, and in my view only one worked.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Only one works all the time," he said, showing a visitor around the museum's four exhibition floors.

The New York Times - Arts

Dr Sun said: "We tried several different methods, but only one worked.

BBC

"We tried several different methods, but only one worked," Sun said in a statement.

Vice

"We're not the only ones working on projects like this," he says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "only one working", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the singular working item is contrasted against. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the intended meaning is clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "only one working" when describing a system where multiple components are required for operation. For instance, instead of saying "only one working engine", specify which engine is functional to provide more clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only one working" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It specifies that out of a group, only a single entity is currently functional or operational. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

23%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only one working" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that just one item or person is functional out of a larger group. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure that the context makes it clear which item or person is the functional one. While there are several alternative phrasings like "sole working" or "just one working", the choice depends on the desired tone and formality. Remember to avoid using "only one working" in situations where multiple components are interdependent for a system's operation, ensuring the description remains precise and unambiguous. The expression "only one working" is common and useful across a broad spectrum of writing, indicating a simple and clear concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sole working

Replaces 'only one' with 'sole' to emphasize exclusivity.

just one working

Substitutes 'only' with 'just' for a slightly more informal tone.

single working

Uses 'single' instead of 'only one' to indicate a lone entity in operation.

singular working

Uses 'singular' instead of 'only one' to highlight the uniqueness.

one functioning

Replaces 'working' with 'functioning' for a more technical or formal tone.

one operational

Employs 'operational' instead of 'working' to denote active use.

one in service

Indicates that the item is currently being used or is available for use.

one active

Highlights that the item is in an active state.

one running

Suggests the item is currently in progress or executing.

one going

Informal way of saying something is still in operation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "only one working" in a more formal context?

In formal settings, consider alternatives such as "the "sole functioning" unit" or "the "singular operational" component" for a more professional tone.

What's a more casual way to say "only one working"?

For informal situations, you can use phrases like "just one working" or "only one going" to maintain a relaxed tone.

When is it better to use "single working" instead of "only one working"?

"Single working" can be preferable when you want to emphasize the isolated nature of the functioning item or individual, adding a bit more force to the description.

How does "only one working" differ from "one functioning"?

While both phrases are similar, "one functioning" often implies a more technical or mechanical context, focusing on the act of functioning, whereas "only one working" is broader and can apply to various scenarios, including people or systems.