single - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
single Word Meanings
- one only; individual
- not accompanied by others
- a person who is not in a romantic relationship
single Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
single Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsɪŋɡl/
US
/ˈsɪŋɡəl/
single Word Etymology
single: sing- = alone + -le (suffix forming adjectives). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a lone tree standing proud on a hill, representing individuality and independence.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for one item from the shelf and lift it just enough to see its edge. I move it away from the others, set it down with care, and watch how it stands alone. I adjust my grip and keep an eye on the space it occupies, making sure it doesn't join the crowd. In that small action, the sense of single—not part of a pair—drifts into my mind.
Real Context
Single is a flexible word that marks independence or isolation. As an adjective, it means one, not paired or coupled, and describes things that are not in groups: a single item, a single ticket. As a noun, it can refer to a person who is not in a romantic relationship, or to a music release (a single) or a one-way train ticket. As a verb, to single someone or something out is to choose or highlight them from a larger group. Learners should watch for collocations like single file, single-use, single-parent, and single-minded, and for phrases such as single ticket or single room that carry fixed meanings beyond 'one'.
Usage Reminders
- Use single to mean one or not paired.
- As a noun, it can mean a person not in a relationship or a music release.
- As a verb, single out means to pick or highlight from a group.
- Watch fixed phrases: single file, single-use, single-parent, single-minded.
- In phrases like single ticket or single room, the meaning is usually more than simply 'one'.
Common Misconceptions
- Single does not always mean lonely; it can simply mean one item or not in a pair.
- As a noun, 'the single' can refer to a music release, not just a relationship status.
- To single out is not the same as to separate; it means to pick and possibly highlight.
- Fixed phrases like single file or single-use have meaning beyond 'one'.
- Don’t assume 'single' always translates to one in every context; context matters (ticket, room, status).
Thinking Differences
In English, single spans adjective, noun, and verb senses; learners must track three parts of speech and common collocations.
Learning Tips
- Make a mini glossary for adj, noun, verb senses of single.
- Practice with common collocations: single file, single-use, single-minded.
- Create a sentence for each meaning (one item, solo status, highlight).
- Put 'single' in pairs with related words: ticket, room, out, out of a group.
- Use flashcards to memorize host language equivalents (soltero, célibataire, etc.).
- Check context cues (train ticket vs romantic status vs music).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'single'?
A.One
B.Two
C.Three
D.Four
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'single' correctly?
A.She prefers to be single and ready to mingle.
B.The single of her new song is climbing the charts.
C.He ordered a single of fries at the restaurant.
D.They bought a single of books from the store.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'single'?
A.Multiple
B.Solitary
C.Pair
D.Many
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'single'?
A.Couple
B.Plenty
C.Group
D.Few
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'single'?
A.The team scored a single goal in the match.
B.She bought a single ticket for the movie.
C.They offered a single solution to the problem.
D.He shared a single piece of advice with them.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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