the only one left

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the only one left" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the last remaining item in a group of items or people. For example: "I was the only one left in the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Glendale wasn't the only one left on the hook.

Los Angeles Times

"Wallace is the only one left.

The New York Times

"I'm the only one left," he said.

The New York Times

Am I the only one left?

The Guardian

"Pretty soon we'll be the only one left.

The New York Times - Tech

"We're holding out until we are the only one left.

The Guardian

"I'm the only one left in Eau Claire.

The Guardian - Music

"I'm the only one left with a nickname," he said.

The New York Times

"This is the only one left in private hands".

The New York Times - Arts

And here, he is the only one left.

The New York Times

Maybe has a case of survivor's anxiety, if she's the only one left.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the only one left" to emphasize the exclusivity and finality of a situation. This phrase can add emotional weight to your writing, particularly when discussing loss, survival, or significant change.

Common error

Avoid using "the only one left" when a simple statement of quantity suffices. The phrase carries connotations of uniqueness, solitude, and potentially loss, which may be inappropriate in neutral or positive contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only one left" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the single remaining entity from a group, emphasizing its unique position, as exemplified by Ludwig's analysis and the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only one left" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies the last remaining entity in a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. While its register is generally neutral, its emotional implications make it particularly effective when discussing themes of solitude, survival, or significant change. When using this phrase, consider its contextual appropriateness and potential for conveying nuanced meanings. Remember that while similar phrases exist, such as "the last remaining" or "sole survivor", each carries its own distinct connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the only one remaining

Similar to the original phrase but with a slightly more formal tone.

the last remaining

Highlights the state of being the final one of a group.

the only survivor

Focuses on survival of multiple people.

the sole survivor

Focuses on survival after a tragic event.

the last man standing

Implies endurance and resilience in a competition.

the one who persists

Highlights the quality of persevering through difficulties.

the lone wolf

Emphasizes isolation and independence.

the final holdout

Suggests resistance and persistence against opposition.

the solitary figure

Emphasizes the loneliness and uniqueness of the individual.

the last vestige

Refers to the final trace or remnant of something.

FAQs

How can I use "the only one left" in a sentence?

You can use "the only one left" to describe a person, object, or entity that remains when all others have disappeared or ceased to exist. For example, "After the company-wide layoffs, he was "the only one left" in the department."

What are some alternative ways to say "the only one left"?

Alternatives include "the last remaining", "the sole survivor", or "the only survivor", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "the only one left" grammatically correct?

Yes, "the only one left" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English.

What is the difference between "the only one left" and "the last one"?

While similar, "the only one left" often carries a stronger connotation of solitude, loss, or unique circumstance compared to the more neutral "the last one".