singling me out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "singling me out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to being chosen or targeted specifically among a group, often in a negative or critical context. Example: "I felt uncomfortable when the teacher was singling me out in front of the whole class for my mistakes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The critic unequivocally trashed the whole project, singling me out for his strongest words of contempt.

The New Yorker

(I was acquitted when my attorney proved government misconduct in singling me out because of who my father was).

The New Yorker

I could feel a rising indignation at the man's audacity in singling me out in this way.

The Guardian

"I don't think they were singling me out, but it is convenient to lay off a woman on maternity leave.

The New York Times - Health

But when that becomes a way of singling me out, so everyone can have a laugh at my expense, I will take it to management.

The Guardian - Money

(I was acquitted when my attorney proved government misconduct in singling me out because of who my father was). Heller writes about the "familiar hagiography" surrounding my father.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Nor is it hard to figure out why he singled me out for special attention.

The New Yorker

He then singled me out to quiz me on my sexual preferences.

Independent

One of my teachers singled me out to become a priest, along with another boy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The center has not singled me out for any special surveillance.

The New York Times - Magazine

He said, 'You singled me out.' I said: 'You're darn right.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "singling me out", consider the connotation you want to convey. It often implies unfairness or unwanted attention, so ensure it aligns with the intended meaning.

Common error

Be mindful that "singling me out" often carries a negative implication. If you mean to convey that you received special attention in a positive way, consider alternatives like "giving me special attention" or "recognizing me specifically".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "singling me out" functions as a verb phrase typically used to describe an action performed by someone else, where the speaker or writer is the direct object of that action. It suggests a specific selection or targeting, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "singling me out" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe being specifically chosen or targeted from a larger group. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is suitable for use in written English and often carries a negative connotation, suggesting unfairness or unwanted attention. While it primarily appears in news and media contexts, writers should be mindful of the phrase's implications and consider alternative expressions like "targeting me" or "giving me special attention" depending on the desired meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

targeting me

Focuses on being the object of attention, often with a negative connotation.

isolating me

Highlights the aspect of being separated or set apart from others.

zeroing in on me

Suggests a focused and deliberate selection.

picking on me

Implies unfair or bullying behavior.

calling me out

Emphasizes being publicly identified or criticized.

making an example of me

Suggests being used as a warning or lesson to others.

pointing me out

Highlights the act of identifying someone visually or verbally.

setting me apart

Focuses on being distinguished or different from the rest.

giving me special attention

Indicates receiving more focus or treatment than others, which can be positive or negative.

handpicking me

Suggests a careful and deliberate selection, often for a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "singling me out" in a sentence?

You can use "singling me out" to describe a situation where you feel you've been unfairly or particularly targeted. For example, "I felt uncomfortable when the teacher was singling me out for my mistakes."

What's the difference between "targeting me" and "singling me out"?

"Targeting me" generally implies a more aggressive or deliberate focus, while "singling me out" suggests being chosen from a group, not necessarily with hostile intent. The latter can still have negative connotations, though.

Are there situations where "singling me out" has a positive connotation?

While less common, "singling me out" can be positive if it means receiving special recognition or praise. However, it's more common to use phrases like "giving me special attention" to convey a positive meaning in such contexts.

What are some alternatives to "singling me out"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "isolating me", "calling me out", or "making an example of me". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.