singular privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "singular privilege" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a unique or exclusive advantage that is held by an individual or a specific group. Example: "The CEO's singular privilege allowed him to make decisions that others could not question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The photo reminds him of the strange, singular privilege of being on the inside, up on the mountain, with the president.

The Washington Post

You may not feel you have earned it, but it is a singular privilege to be among the 650 or so surviving mountain gorillas.

The New York Times - Travel

He stated that it had been "a singular privilege, honor and delight" to serve in the administration over the previous five years, first as a special assistant to Attorney General William French Smith, and then for four years as a junior lawyer in the White House counsel's office.

The New York Times

"I'm not going to pretend that there haven't been moments of great frustration, but it is a singular privilege.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This column has been a singular joy and privilege to write, and I will miss your readership.

The New York Times

at the first instant of her conception was preserved immaculate from all stain of original sin, by the singular grace and privilege granted her by Almighty God, through the merits of Christ Jesus, Saviour of mankind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to this dogma, Mary not only was pure in her life and in her birth but at the first instant of her conception was preserved immaculate from all stain of original sin, by the singular grace and privilege granted her by Almighty God, through the merits of Christ Jesus, Saviour of mankind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, it was only in 1854 that Pope Pius IX proclaimed: "the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by the Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin" (Ineffabilis Deus).

Huffington Post

However, it was only in 1854 that Pope Pius IX proclaimed that, "the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by the Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin" (Ineffabilis Deus).

Huffington Post

In 1854, Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception and stated: "The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin.'".

Huffington Post

Ontologically, these two maxims are precisely on a par, and there is no good reason to privilege the singular.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider if "unique advantage" or "exclusive privilege" might be more direct and easily understood by your audience.

Common error

Avoid assuming that every privilege is "singular". Reserve this phrase for cases where the advantage is truly exceptional and not commonly available. Overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "singular privilege" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig confirms, it correctly identifies and describes a unique or exclusive advantage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "singular privilege" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a unique and often exclusive advantage. While not as common as simpler alternatives, it is most appropriately used in formal writing to emphasize the exceptional nature of a particular benefit. Ludwig confirms the usability of the phrase, noting its suitability for contexts where precision and formality are important. Alternatives like "unique honor" or "exclusive right" may be considered for greater clarity or emphasis, depending on the specific context. The phrase is commonly found in news and encyclopedic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unique honor

Replaces privilege with honor, emphasizing the prestigious aspect.

exclusive right

Focuses on the aspect of having a right that others do not share.

uncommon benefit

Highlights the rarity and advantageous nature of the privilege.

distinct advantage

Emphasizes the clear and noticeable advantage conferred.

rare opportunity

Shifts the focus to the chance or occasion presented by the privilege.

special dispensation

Suggests a formal or official granting of the privilege.

exceptional favor

Highlights the element of kindness or generosity in bestowing the privilege.

unparalleled advantage

Emphasizes how the privilege cannot be compared to others.

remarkable distinction

This alternative emphasizes the difference conferred by the privilege.

select advantage

This alternative emphasizes the exclusivity of the advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "singular privilege" in a sentence?

You can use "singular privilege" to describe a unique advantage or honor bestowed upon someone. For instance, "It was a "singular privilege" to be invited to the private event".

What phrases can I use instead of "singular privilege"?

Alternatives to "singular privilege" include "unique honor", "exclusive right", or "distinct advantage". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "singular privilege" and "special privilege"?

While both phrases denote an advantage not widely available, "singular privilege" suggests a higher degree of uniqueness and distinction compared to "special privilege". The latter might refer to a privilege that is merely uncommon, while the former is exceptionally rare.

When is it appropriate to use the term "singular privilege"?

The phrase "singular privilege" is most appropriate in formal or elevated contexts when emphasizing the unique and exceptional nature of an advantage or honor. It conveys a sense of prestige and exclusivity.