the only connection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the only connection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that there is a singular link or relationship between two or more things. Example: "For years, the only connection between the two families was a shared history of friendship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The only connection bet.

The New Yorker

The only connection they have to people is fear".

The New York Times

The only connection was Mr. Benny's wheezing automobile, a Maxwell.

The New York Times

Genetics isn't the only connection women have to their kids.

The New Yorker

So these sensational reports might be the only connection some Americans have to either group.

The New York Times

The dividing line was Spuyten Duyvil Creek, then the only connection betw.

The New Yorker

Well, at the end of the day that may be the only connection.

The New York Times

For the following year, the only connection to our "disrupted" adoption was financial.

The New York Times

The only connection seems to have been Scarsdale, though they did not all live here.

The New York Times

"The only connection is that both of them are marginalized," he says.

The New Yorker

At times, books or talking books are the only connection to the world they've got.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the only connection", ensure that you clearly define the elements being connected to avoid ambiguity. Specificity enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "the only connection" when there are other contributing factors or relationships, even if minor. Overstating the exclusivity can weaken your argument and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only connection" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object in a sentence, identifying a singular relationship or link. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only connection" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize a singular link or relationship between two or more elements. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. This phrase appears frequently in news articles, scientific publications, and wiki entries, indicating its widespread applicability. When using "the only connection", it's crucial to be specific and avoid overstating the exclusivity if other minor relationships exist. Remember that effective communication with "the only connection" is achieved through clarity, precision, and awareness of context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole link

Replaces "connection" with "link" to emphasize the singularity of the relationship.

the single link

Uses "single" instead of "only" to highlight the one and only association.

the unique link

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the relationship by using "unique" instead of "only".

the exclusive link

Replaces "only" with "exclusive" to stress that there are no other connections.

the one and only link

Adds emphasis to the singularity of the connection using the phrase "one and only".

the primary association

Substitutes "connection" with "association", focusing on the main relationship.

the main link

Replaces "only" with "main" to indicate the most important connection.

the solitary link

Uses "solitary" to emphasize the isolated nature of the connection.

the fundamental association

Replaces "connection" with "association", emphasizing the basic or foundational relationship.

the crucial link

Substitutes "only" with "crucial" to denote a significant connection.

FAQs

How can I use "the only connection" in a sentence?

You can use "the only connection" to emphasize a singular link between two or more elements. For example, "For many years, "radio was the only connection" to the outside world for those living in remote areas."

What are some alternatives to "the only connection"?

Some alternatives to "the only connection" include "the sole link", "the single link", and "the exclusive link". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the only connection between"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use the phrase "the only connection between". This phrase clearly indicates a singular relationship linking two or more distinct entities.

What's the difference between "the only connection" and "a connection"?

"The only connection" emphasizes that there is just one link, while "a connection" implies that there might be multiple links or relationships.