singular to itself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "singular to itself" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unique or distinct in its own right, often in a philosophical or abstract context. Example: "The concept of identity is singular to itself, representing an individual's unique essence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

While dreams are singular to the dreamer, the act of dreaming itself is universal.

Huffington Post

Then again, this compulsion to claim basic human experiences as singular to the South may be a regional tic in and of itself.

The New York Times - Books

His playing is just too singular to be generically labelled.

The Guardian - Music

It is not singular to you.

HuffPost

But since Singular works itself into contortions to avoid the mate-hunting assumption, there's really nothing holding the magazine together.

Forbes

Given all the things this series does that no other shows on TV care to -- it is as singular as New Orleans itself -- this extended coda is a happy surprise.

Los Angeles Times

Thanks to such a representation the (material) intellect can assimilate itself in the act of knowing to singular things attested to by the senses.

SEP

Honesty overused — treated as a singular virtue by itself — can actually lead to cruelty.

The New York Times

His telling of the story is itself the discovery of a singular way to tell it.

The New Yorker

Through the Olympian detachment of his descriptions and the searing intensity of his speeches, Homer draws us into a world that is at the same time "historical" (singular, never to be repeated) and emblematic (absolute, more real than life itself).

The New York Times

According to Ockham's metaphysics there are only individuals in the world so that when an individual causes a concept to exist in the mind, it causes an individual concept and hence a singular conception of itself.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "singular to itself" when you want to emphasize the self-referential uniqueness of a concept or entity, especially in philosophical or abstract contexts. This highlights that its defining characteristics are intrinsic and independent.

Common error

Avoid using "singular to itself" in contexts where simpler terms like "unique" or "distinct" suffice. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios demanding nuanced philosophical or abstract expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "singular to itself" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or concept. It adds a layer of self-referential uniqueness to the noun it modifies. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and conveys a sense of inherent distinctiveness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "singular to itself" is used to describe something that is uniquely self-referential, with defining characteristics that are intrinsic and independent. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct, although relatively uncommon. Its usage is more frequent in News & Media and Science contexts, typically maintaining a formal and scientific tone. When writing, reserve this phrase for philosophical or abstract scenarios where you want to emphasize an inherent and unparalleled nature. Alternatives like "unique unto itself" or "distinct in its own right" can also be considered based on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unique unto itself

Emphasizes the unparalleled nature of something, highlighting its lack of comparison.

Distinct in its own right

Focuses on the independent validity and recognition of something's unique qualities.

Self-contained

Highlights the completeness and independence of something, suggesting it needs nothing else.

In a class of its own

Indicates exceptional quality or uniqueness, setting something apart from others in its category.

One of a kind

Emphasizes rarity and the absence of duplicates.

Sui generis

A Latin term denoting something that is unique and cannot be classified within existing categories.

Unparalleled

Stresses the lack of equal or comparison, emphasizing superiority or uniqueness.

Matchless

Highlights the inability to find something equal, stressing its superior quality or uniqueness.

Uncommon

Emphasizes that it is not seen or experienced often.

Unlike any other

Focuses on the differentiation from all other existing things.

FAQs

What does "singular to itself" mean?

The phrase "singular to itself" describes something that is unique and self-referential, meaning its defining characteristics are intrinsic and not dependent on external comparisons. It's often used in philosophical or abstract contexts to emphasize the unparalleled nature of a concept or entity.

How can I use "singular to itself" in a sentence?

You can use "singular to itself" to describe a concept or entity whose uniqueness stems from its internal characteristics rather than external comparisons. For example: "The concept of identity is "singular to itself", representing an individual's unique essence."

What are some alternatives to "singular to itself"?

Some alternatives to "singular to itself" include "unique unto itself", "distinct in its own right", or "self-contained". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "singular to itself" grammatically correct?

Yes, "singular to itself" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is used in written English, although it is not a very common phrase.