though for once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "though for once" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a rare exception to a general pattern or behavior, often implying that something is different this time. Example: "He usually avoids social gatherings, but he decided to join the party, though for once."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

(Though, for once, Billington was not actually reviewing these performances).

The Guardian

Ahead of Saturday's 232nd Derby, though, for once there is no doubt about the identity of the person whose colours will be carried by the red-hot favourite Carlton House.

Independent

Though for once, the answer was yes, I did like her.

The New York Times

That's something the magazines are also promoting, though, for once, retailers present a more intelligible view.

The New York Times

Inevitably, speeches involved the idea of putting football in perspective, though for once the cliché seemed more than appropriate.

The Guardian - Sport

Pavlo Zhuk suddenly realized he was shouting, though for once the telephone line to Kiev was crystal clear.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"Hopefully not, though, as for once England are bringing some adventure and entertainment to the party".

The Guardian - Sport

There was one shining moment of insight though, and for once I had a ringside seat.

The Economist

It won't be easy, though: this year, for once, Democrats are more enthusiastic about voting than Republicans.

The Guardian - Opinion

Needless to say, a stunt like that will work only once, though for some, once is enough.

The New York Times

For once, though, the supermodel might be behind the curve.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "though for once" to highlight a notable exception to a recurring pattern or expectation. This can add emphasis and surprise to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "though for once" too frequently, as it can lose its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Reserve it for truly exceptional circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "though for once" functions as an adverbial conjunction, modifying the main clause by indicating a rare exception or contrasting circumstance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "though for once" is a grammatically correct conjunction phrase used to emphasize an exception to a general rule or pattern. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct. While not overly formal, it's most commonly found in news and media contexts to point out deviations from the norm. Remember to use it sparingly to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives like "although in this instance" or "even if just this once" for different shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, on this occasion

A more formal way to introduce a contrasting situation or exception.

while in this one instance

Similar to "although in this instance", focusing on a specific case.

although in this instance

Replaces "for once" with a more formal phrase indicating a specific occurrence.

albeit in this case

A formal alternative to introduce an exception or qualification.

but for this single time

Highlights the uniqueness of the event or situation being described.

even if just this once

Emphasizes the exceptional nature of the situation and the possibility of it not happening again.

though only this time

Highlights the limited occurrence of the situation.

despite that, for once

Emphasizes the contrast before acknowledging the exception.

yet, exceptionally

A concise way to indicate a deviation from the norm or expectation.

even though just for now

Suggests the exception may be temporary or conditional.

FAQs

How can I use "though for once" in a sentence?

Use "though for once" to indicate a deviation from a typical pattern. For example, "He is usually late, "though for once", he arrived on time."

What are some alternatives to "though for once"?

You can use alternatives such as "although in this instance", "even if just this once", or "however, on this occasion" depending on the context.

Is "though for once" formal or informal?

"Though for once" is generally considered neutral in formality, suitable for both casual and professional writing, but it leans toward the slightly more informal side. More formal alternatives exist, such as "however, on this occasion".

What's the difference between "though for once" and "even though"?

"Even though" introduces a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict the main clause, while ""though for once"" emphasizes that something is happening differently than usual on this particular occasion.