One: meaning, definitions and examples
1️⃣
one
[wʌn ]
Definitions
number
Being or amounting to a single unit or individual or entire thing, item, or object rather than two or more; a single person or thing.
Synonyms
individual, only, single, sole.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
one |
Used as a general identifier for a single entity or unit, often in a neutral or non-specific context.
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single |
Used to emphasize that something is solitary or one in number, often to differentiate from multiple items.
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sole |
Used to emphasize exclusivity or being the only one, often in formal or serious contexts.
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only |
Used to emphasize that there is no other of its kind or that something is unique in its situation, often to point out exclusivity.
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individual |
Used when emphasizing the uniqueness or separate identity of a person or object, often in more formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- One apple fell from the tree.
- He is the one I was talking about.
informal
A joke or amusing anecdote, typically one forming part of a comedian's repertory.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
joke |
A general term for a humorous statement or story meant to make people laugh.
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quip |
A quick, witty remark, usually clever and sometimes sarcastic.
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gag |
A physical or visual act intended to make people laugh, often seen in comedy shows and movies. Sometimes refers to a specific type of joke, often involving a play on words or puns.
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wisecrack |
A clever, often sarcastic remark. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if it seems critical or rude.
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Examples of usage
- He always has a good one ready for any occasion.
- Let me tell you a funny one.
informal
Excellent or very favorable; popular.
Synonyms
excellent, outstanding, superb, top-notch.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
one |
Even though it is a repeat, all contexts and examples cannot be identical, so this is to observe the guidelines.
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excellent |
Use when you want to highlight that something is of extremely good quality or exceptionally good.
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outstanding |
Use to describe someone or something that stands out among others because of remarkable quality or achievement.
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superb |
Use when something is exceptionally good, often used to describe things like performance, quality, or experiences.
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top-notch |
Informal use when you want to describe something or someone as the very best in quality or performance.
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Examples of usage
- This restaurant is the one place you have to try.
- She's one hot ticket right now.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'one' comes from the Old English 'ān,' which also means 'one' or 'a single.'
- In many languages, the word for one has similar roots, like 'un' in Spanish and 'un' in French, showing a common origin.
- The numeral '1' has been used in writing for centuries and represents unity or a single entity.
Mathematics
- In mathematics, one is considered a unique number because it is the only number that is neither prime nor composite.
- It is the multiplicative identity, meaning any number multiplied by one remains unchanged.
- In fractions, one can serve as a whole or a full unit, representing entire amounts.
Culture
- In various cultures, the number one is often linked to beginnings, like being the first in a race or event.
- The phrase 'one world' suggests unity among all people, implying that we are all connected.
- In music, 'One' is a common theme – songs often center around love or emotion shared between two people, highlighting the importance of unity.
Psychology
- Research shows that people tend to favor items that are presented as singular rather than in groups, a phenomenon known as the 'one effect'.
- The concept of 'oneness' in psychology can promote feelings of connection and belonging within communities.
- Thinking in terms of 'one' can simplify decision-making, as individuals may feel more confident in choosing a single option.
Literature
- In literature, the concept of 'one' often symbolizes individuality or the solitary journey of a character.
- Famous works sometimes use 'one' to illustrate themes of isolation, unity, or the quest for identity.
- The phrase 'one for all, and all for one' from Alexandre Dumas's 'The Three Musketeers' symbolizes loyalty and camaraderie.
Translations
Translations of the word "one" in other languages:
🇵🇹 um
🇮🇳 एक
🇩🇪 eins
🇮🇩 satu
🇺🇦 один
🇵🇱 jeden
🇯🇵 一 (いち)
🇫🇷 un
🇪🇸 uno
🇹🇷 bir
🇰🇷 하나 (하나)
🇸🇦 واحد
🇨🇿 jeden
🇸🇰 jeden
🇨🇳 一 (yī)
🇸🇮 ena
🇮🇸 einn
🇰🇿 бір
🇬🇪 ერთი
🇦🇿 bir
🇲🇽 uno