single role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "single role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific function or position that an individual or entity occupies, often in a context where multiple roles might exist. Example: "In this project, I will be taking on a single role as the project manager to ensure clarity and focus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The mature cells are mere pawns, with a single role.

The New York Times - Science

Only James Arness, on "Gunsmoke," has played a single role for so long in prime time.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Carter identifies with Hayworth, she said, because each is predominantly associated with a single role.

The New York Times - Arts

Like the Olsen twins, the Sprouses began their careers playing a single role.

The New York Times

As a result, his entire career has been penned in by a single role.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is a team game but sometimes one has to brave acknowledgment of a single role.

The Guardian - Sport

Only Lillete Dubey, as Ratna at the end of her career, has a single role.

The New York Times

I think I approach writing as an actor, but not through any single role I've played.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The single role-describing elements are defined and based on these, modules for the development of collaborative roles is being derived.

Procedia CIRP

Players can rotate through roles within a single role-play (switching) with the intention of gaining insight into other roles or perspectives or players can be substituted at various points in the role-play by observers.

BMC Medical Education

It will replace two single-role types providing both improved operational flexibility and cost savings.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing that something or someone has a specific, limited function, use "single role" to clearly convey that there are no other responsibilities or functions involved.

Common error

Avoid using "single role" when the context already implies a unique or exclusive function. For example, instead of saying "the company assigned him a single role as CEO", simply state "the company assigned him as CEO" if it's understood that a CEO typically has one primary role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "single role" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object within a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it designates a specific and often unique function or responsibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "single role" is a commonly used and grammatically correct English phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a specific and unique function or responsibility, often in contrast to multiple roles. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications, with a neutral register. Alternatives like "sole function" or "primary duty" can provide nuanced variations. When using "single role", avoid redundancy and ensure the context doesn't already imply exclusivity. Overall, "single role" is a versatile phrase for clearly defining the scope of responsibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sole function

Emphasizes the exclusivity of the function.

one responsibility

A more direct and straightforward way of saying "single role".

exclusive responsibility

Highlights the unique accountability associated with the role.

primary duty

Focuses on the main obligation or task.

only job

Simplifies the concept to the idea of having just one job.

singular task

Stresses the individual and isolated nature of the task.

unique position

Highlights the distinctiveness of the role.

individual capacity

Focuses on the person's specific capability in the role.

designated responsibility

Emphasizes the assignment of the particular duty.

specific assignment

Highlights the detailed and particular nature of the assigned role.

FAQs

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

You can use "single role" to describe a situation where someone or something has only one function or responsibility. For example: "Her "single role" in the project was to manage the budget".

What's an alternative to "single role"?

Alternatives to "single role" include "sole function", "exclusive responsibility", or "primary duty". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "single role" or "sole role"?

Both "single role" and "sole role" are grammatically correct, but "sole role" often emphasizes exclusivity and uniqueness more strongly than "single role".

Can "single role" apply to objects as well as people?

Yes, "single role" can apply to both. You might say "This tool has a "single role": to tighten screws", just as you might say "Her "single role" is project management".