single move

USAGE SUMMARY

"single move" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a single action or motion that will have an effect on something else. For example, "With a single move, the chess master captured his opponent's king."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You can hear it on her latest single Move Systems.

The Guardian - Music

It won the contest in a single move.

The New Yorker

China is closely scrutinizing every single move in Taiwan.

The Economist

A single move that combines a squat thrust, a push-up and a jump.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

How did they go from Abandoned Luncheonette to War Babies in a single move?

The Guardian - Music

In a single move, it skewered the self-indulgence of everything else onstage.

The Guardian

On Thursday morning, a second single, "Move ya Body," went online.

The New York Times

The pulsing single "Move in the Right Direction," is aptly named.

The New York Times - Arts

"We just found we couldn't go any further on our own," says Craig. "The single Move proved that to us".

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Tickets for single moving violations cannot exceed $350.

The New York Times

Hideki Matsui, who had led off with a single, moved up to second base.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "single move" to emphasize the impact or consequences of a single action, particularly in strategic or decisive situations. For example, "The company's future depended on this single move."

Common error

Avoid using "single move" when a simpler term like "action" or "step" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "single move" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It emphasizes the singular nature and often the consequential impact of an action, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "single move" is a commonly used noun phrase that emphasizes the impact and decisiveness of a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and wiki sources. While generally neutral in tone, it is best used when highlighting the strategic importance of an action, avoiding overuse in simpler contexts. Alternatives such as "one action" or "decisive act" may be more appropriate in less formal situations. The phrase is versatile and frequently encountered in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one action

Focuses on the act itself, rather than the strategic implication of it.

sole action

Highlights that only one action was performed.

single step

Emphasizes that it constitutes one stage in a longer process.

isolated action

Emphasizes the action's separateness from other related actions.

individual attempt

Highlights the effort made in a single instance.

individual maneuver

Describes it as a tactical movement or action.

decisive act

Conveys the importance and impact of the action.

unique gesture

Suggests the action is distinctive and uncommon.

strategic play

Focuses on its deliberate and calculated nature.

one fell swoop

Implies a comprehensive and swift action.

FAQs

How can I use "single move" in a sentence?

You can use "single move" to describe an action that has a significant impact or consequence. For example: "In a "single move", he checkmated his opponent."

What are some alternatives to "single move"?

Alternatives include "one action", "sole action", or "decisive act", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "single move" instead of a simpler term like "action"?

"Single move" is best used when you want to emphasize the strategic importance or far-reaching consequences of that particular action. If the action is just a routine step, a simpler term may be more appropriate.

Is "single move" formal or informal?

"Single move" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both news reporting and analytical writing. However, be mindful of overuse, as it can sometimes sound overly dramatic. Considering choosing "isolated action" or "sole action".