the single thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the single thing' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a particular item, especially when it is the only one of its kind or the most important thing. For example, "I have many commitments, but the single thing that is most important to me is spending time with my family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's the single thing.

Harvard Business Review

But money isn't the single thing that matters.

The New York Times - Sports

The diaeresis is the single thing that readers of the letter-writing variety complain about most.

The New Yorker

The single thing that more than any other has 'normalised' gay relationships has been civil partnerships.

The Guardian

Come on, what is the single thing you'd change if you could?

The Guardian - Tech

The single thing that's made me successful over my life is drive.

The New York Times

The single thing that most characterises people who have experienced forgiveness is this larger perspective".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The single thing we know is that he is alive," said Oksana Makushina, a deputy editor of the paper.

The New York Times

The single thing that's most effective isn't saying they'll get rich, or pit groups against each other.

The Guardian - Tech

For example, I ask for E-Act's unique selling point, the single thing that distinguishes it from other academy chains.

The Guardian

"Only in retrospect was it elevated into the single thing that conclusively persuaded a reluctant country to war".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the single thing", ensure that it genuinely represents the most important or unique aspect to avoid overstating its significance. Be specific about why it is the single thing that matters.

Common error

Avoid using "the single thing" when multiple factors contribute significantly. If there are several important aspects, consider phrases like "one of the most important things" rather than claiming exclusivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the single thing" functions as a determiner phrase that introduces a noun or clause, emphasizing a particular item, aspect, or action as uniquely significant or paramount. It highlights what stands out above all else, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the single thing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that emphasizes a particular item or aspect as the most important or unique. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academia and business. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid overemphasis, ensuring that it genuinely represents the paramount aspect you intend to highlight. Alternatives like "the main thing" or "the most important thing" can provide nuanced options depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main thing

Focuses on the primary aspect or concern.

the only thing

Emphasizes exclusivity; that there is nothing else.

the most important thing

Highlights the element of highest significance.

the key thing

Indicates the essential or crucial element.

the crucial aspect

Highlights a critical attribute.

the essential element

Points to an indispensable component.

the primary concern

Shifts focus to the main worry or consideration.

the fundamental aspect

Indicates the base or root element.

the overriding factor

Suggests the most dominant or influential element.

the central point

Focuses on the core idea or issue.

FAQs

How can I use "the single thing" in a sentence?

You can use "the single thing" to emphasize the most important or unique aspect of something. For example, "The single thing that matters is perseverance."

What are some alternatives to "the single thing"?

Alternatives include "the main thing", "the most important thing", or "the key thing" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the single thing"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "The single thing" is a common and acceptable phrase in English.

What is the difference between "the single thing" and "the only thing"?

"The single thing" emphasizes importance, while "the only thing" emphasizes exclusivity. Use "the single thing" when something is paramount, and "the only thing" when nothing else exists or matters.