single or multiple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "single or multiple" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing options or choices that can be either one (single) or more than one (multiple). Example: "Please indicate whether you would like a single or multiple copies of the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ulceration can be single or multiple.

Nature

Sending and receiving single or multiple files.

Columbia University

Patients can present with either a single or multiple PPGLs.

Nature

You can specify a RANGE, or single or multiple VALUES.

Columbia University

Bagiella E. Clinical trials in rehabilitation: single or multiple outcomes?

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

The paths may originate from single or multiple sources.

Multimedia over IP and Wireless Networks

Security integration projects often involve single or multiple sites.

CCTV Surveillance Analog and Digital Video Practices and Technology

Both the smaller and larger systems can have single or multiple chambers.

Britannica

The system can be used to look for single or multiple genetic targets.

MIT Technology Review

This approach will develop optimal control policies for single or multiple vehicles.

University of California, Berkeley

Infection with single or multiple viruses did not affect biomass in the native host.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting options, use "single or multiple" to clearly indicate that either one or more than one choice is acceptable. This avoids ambiguity and ensures that the audience understands the full range of possibilities.

Common error

Be concise; avoid redundant phrases like "single, or in some cases multiple." The phrase "single or multiple" already covers both possibilities. Stick to the core expression unless additional clarification is genuinely needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "single or multiple" serves as a quantifier and determiner, indicating that the number of items or instances can be either one or more than one. Ludwig shows several examples in academic, scientific, and news contexts, affirming its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

19%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "single or multiple" functions as a quantifier, describing the possibility of either one or more entities. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse domains, including science, news, and academia. The phrase serves to clarify options or describe potential scenarios concisely. While leaning towards a neutral to formal register, it remains versatile enough for various contexts. When seeking alternative expressions, consider options such as "one or more" or "either one or several", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis. Use "single or multiple" with confidence to precisely convey the potential for both singular and plural instances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one or more

Replaces the specific words "single" and "multiple" with a more general expression of quantity.

either one or several

Substitutes "multiple" with "several", implying more than one but typically a small number.

a single or several

Uses "several" instead of "multiple", focusing on a few items rather than many.

one or a few

Replaces "multiple" with "a few", suggesting a small quantity greater than one.

a single or many

Employs "many" as a broader term instead of "multiple", indicating a large quantity.

just one or many

Uses "just one" for emphasis instead of single. It increases the sense of contrast and breadth of range.

one instance or several instances

Replaces "single or multiple" for emphasis on the occurrences.

a singular or plural

Uses a grammar reference, less direct use.

individual or collective

Focuses on the distinction between individual items and a group.

unique or varied

Emphasizes the difference between something being unique versus having variations.

FAQs

How can I use "single or multiple" in a sentence?

Use "single or multiple" to indicate that either one or more than one option is possible or applicable. For example, "The system can handle "single or multiple" users simultaneously."

What's a formal alternative to "single or multiple"?

In formal contexts, consider using "one or more" or "a singular or plural set" as alternatives to "single or multiple". These options maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning.

Is it more accurate to say "one or multiple" instead of "single or multiple"?

While "one or more" is a valid alternative, "single or multiple" is also correct and commonly used. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis, but both are grammatically sound.

What phrases are similar to "single or multiple"?

Similar phrases include "one or several", "individual or many", and "one or more", all of which express the possibility of either a single item or multiple items being involved.