this one time

USAGE SUMMARY

"this one time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a single instance in the past. For example, "This one time, I stayed up all night to finish a project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Jane Sibbett Carol Willickk): I was on the lot this one time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This one: Time.

The Guardian - Music

"This one time.

The New Yorker

I'll do this one time".

The New Yorker

Don and his ex-wife have sex this one time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Can you just do it this one time?" I said weakly.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

This one-time refund can only be claimed on 2006 tax returns.

Forbes

This one-time injection can restore vision long-term.

Harvard University

This one-time transaction would generate multiple benefits.

The Guardian

"I have this one-time-only window next December".

The New York Times - Arts

This one-time-only performance event is made entirely from gestures.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this one time" to introduce a memorable or significant anecdote, adding a personal touch to your writing.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "this one time", as it can make your writing sound repetitive and informal. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this one time" functions as an adverbial phrase, introducing a specific point in the past, and setting the stage for a narrative or anecdote, as showcased in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this one time" serves as an adverbial phrase used to introduce anecdotes and personal experiences. Ludwig AI indicates that its grammatical status is correct, although its register leans toward neutral to informal contexts. While not exceptionally frequent, it appears across various sources, including news and media, and academia, providing a personal touch to narratives. When aiming for formal writing, consider swapping it with alternatives like "on one occasion". Remember to avoid overuse to keep your writing engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one time

This alternative is slightly less emphatic but carries the same meaning.

that one time

This alternative emphasizes a specific instance that has already been established in the conversation.

once

This alternative is shorter and simpler, suitable for contexts where less emphasis on the specific instance is needed.

on one occasion

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the singularity of the event.

at one point

This alternative emphasizes a specific moment in time when something happened.

a single time

This alternative highlights the infrequency of the event.

in that instance

This alternative is more formal and focuses on the particular circumstances of the event.

on that particular occasion

This alternative is very formal and emphasizes the specificity of the event.

in that instance specifically

This alternative adds emphasis to a very particular event.

in a specific case

This alternative shifts the focus slightly to the example rather than the time.

FAQs

How can I use "this one time" in a sentence?

You can use "this one time" to introduce a past event or anecdote, such as, "This one time, I accidentally locked myself out of the house".

What are some alternatives to "this one time"?

Alternatives to "this one time" include "once", "on one occasion", or "that one time", depending on the context and level of formality you're aiming for.

Is it grammatically correct to say "this one time"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct and commonly used in informal and narrative contexts. However, consider more formal alternatives like "on one occasion" in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "this one time" and "that one time"?

"This one time" introduces a new anecdote, while "that one time" refers to a specific instance already known or discussed.