worn only once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'worn only once' is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is often used when describing clothing that has been used only one time and is still in like-new condition. For example, "This dress has only been worn once and is still in excellent condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

That fragile slip of celluloid brought to mind women's special-occasion dresses, worn only once to a memorable event.

The New Yorker

But, thankfully for our athletes, like all those unfortunate handmade gifts of years past, these sweaters have to be worn only once.

The New Yorker

Some men may balk at pants that seemingly can be worn only once a week — unlike jeans, which theoretically can be worn with impunity every day.

The New York Times

Ridiculed in the press as pompous and looking too much like those worn at Buckingham Palace, they were discarded after being worn only once.

The New York Times - Arts

Many of these cocktail dresses are nearly new and been worn only once.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Though I never wore a high-top fade (physically impossible), I did own a "gold" dookie chain that I was smart enough to wear only once.

The New Yorker

"The choice between fashion and longevity is a very personal one," says Michael Bastian Michael Bastian, men's fashion director at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, who notes that he has several fashion suits that he wears only once every five or six years.

Forbes

But this week at New York Fashion Week, I bet no one bats an eyelid at front-row attendees who show up in resource-intensive outfits they'd wear only once.

Huffington Post

Nearly three years ago, the site launched with the simple notion that borrowing and having a disposable closet of accessories wasn't just for celebrities -- especially when said celebs can actually afford to purchase and wear only once, but that's another topic.

Huffington Post

Clothes once worn only in the bedroom or on the beach are now common sights in shopping centres.

Independent

But she has worn it only once.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When selling or describing clothing, using the phrase "worn only once" can increase its perceived value, as it suggests the item is in excellent condition.

Common error

Avoid using "worn only once" if the item shows significant wear or damage. Be honest about the condition to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worn only once" functions as an adjectival modifier, describing the state or condition of an item, typically clothing, indicating its limited use. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a common and grammatically correct expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "worn only once" is a common descriptor, particularly when selling clothing or accessories, indicating the item is in excellent condition due to minimal use. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used in both casual and commercial contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the item's condition to avoid misrepresentation. While alternatives like "used just one time" and "worn on one occasion" exist, "worn only once" remains the most straightforward and widely recognized expression. Its usage spans across News & Media and Wiki sources, making it a versatile choice in various communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

used just one time

Emphasizes the action of using something a single time.

worn on one occasion

Highlights the item being worn for a single event or instance.

used a single time

Focuses on the singularity of the use.

used solely once

Emphasizes that the item was used a single time and no other.

employed only one time

A more formal way to state something was used once.

used just a single time

Adds emphasis to the fact it was only a single occasion.

only used on one occasion

Shifts focus to the single occasion of usage.

worn for a limited time

Highlights the short duration of being worn.

used fleetingly

Emphasizes the short duration of the use.

barely used

Indicates minimal use, implying it's almost new.

FAQs

How can I use "worn only once" in a sentence?

You can say, "This dress was "worn only once" for a wedding and is in perfect condition."

What are some alternatives to saying "worn only once"?

Consider using phrases like "used just one time", "worn on one occasion", or "used a single time" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "worn only once" or "only worn once"?

"Worn only once" is more common and natural-sounding. "Only worn once" can also be used but might sound slightly less fluent in typical conversation.

What does it mean when someone says an item has been "worn only once"?

It means the item of clothing or accessory has been used just one time since it was purchased, implying it's nearly new and in excellent condition.