Single: meaning, definitions and examples

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single

[ˈsɪŋɡəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

relationship status

Unmarried or not involved in a romantic relationship.

Synonyms

available, unattached, uncommitted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
single	Commonly used to describe a person who is not in a romantic relationship. It is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. He has been single for about a year now. Are you single or in a relationship?
unattached	Often used in a more formal or literary sense to describe someone who is not bound by a romantic relationship. It can imply a sense of independence or freedom. After his divorce, he preferred to remain unattached. She enjoys her life unattached and free from obligations.
uncommitted	Suggests someone who is either not in a relationship or not willing to commit to one. It carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a reluctance to settle down. He has dated several people, but he remains uncommitted. She's uncommitted and enjoying her freedom.
available	Used not only to describe someone's relationship status but also can mean that a person is open to dating or looking for a relationship. It is slightly more proactive in suggesting willingness to pursue romance. She is available and looking for someone special. I'm available if you want to grab coffee sometime.

Examples of usage

She's currently single and focusing on her career.
He's been single for a while now and enjoying the freedom.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music

A song released as a stand-alone track, not part of an album.

Synonyms

individual release, stand-alone track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
single	A 'single' is typically used in the music industry to describe a song released on its own, often to promote an album or artist. The band released a new single ahead of their upcoming album. Her latest single topped the charts within a week.
stand-alone track	'Stand-alone track' is used to emphasize that the song is not connected to any album or series, often highlighting its independent nature. This stand-alone track showcases the singer's versatility. He released a stand-alone track to experiment with a new sound.
individual release	'Individual release' is used in more formal contexts or discussions, indicating that the song is released independently from an album or other collections. The artist announced an individual release to stay connected with fans between albums. An individual release strategy can help new musicians gain attention.

Word

Description / Examples

single

A 'single' is typically used in the music industry to describe a song released on its own, often to promote an album or artist.

The band released a new single ahead of their upcoming album.
Her latest single topped the charts within a week.

stand-alone track

'Stand-alone track' is used to emphasize that the song is not connected to any album or series, often highlighting its independent nature.

This stand-alone track showcases the singer's versatility.
He released a stand-alone track to experiment with a new sound.

individual release

'Individual release' is used in more formal contexts or discussions, indicating that the song is released independently from an album or other collections.

The artist announced an individual release to stay connected with fans between albums.
An individual release strategy can help new musicians gain attention.

Examples of usage

The artist surprised fans with a new single.
The single quickly climbed the music charts.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

baseball

To hit the ball so that only one base is reached.

Synonyms

hit a single, reach first base.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
single	Used to describe the type of hit in a baseball game where the batter reaches first base. This term is specific to the type of hit and is generally clear in sports commentary. The crowd cheered as the player got a single
hit a single	This phrase is used to describe the action of a batter successfully hitting the ball and then reaching first base. It's a more specific description of the batter's accomplishment. She hit a single with a sharp line drive to right field
reach first base	This is a broader term that can imply either hitting the ball and getting to first base, or reaching first as a result of a walk, hit by pitch, or other circumstances. It doesn't specify the action that allowed the batter to get there. Despite the pitcher's efforts, he managed to reach first base

Word

Description / Examples

single

Used to describe the type of hit in a baseball game where the batter reaches first base. This term is specific to the type of hit and is generally clear in sports commentary.

The crowd cheered as the player got a single

hit a single

This phrase is used to describe the action of a batter successfully hitting the ball and then reaching first base. It's a more specific description of the batter's accomplishment.

She hit a single with a sharp line drive to right field

reach first base

This is a broader term that can imply either hitting the ball and getting to first base, or reaching first as a result of a walk, hit by pitch, or other circumstances. It doesn't specify the action that allowed the batter to get there.

Despite the pitcher's efforts, he managed to reach first base

Examples of usage

He managed to single to left field.
She singled in the winning run.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'singulus', meaning 'one' or 'individual'.
The word entered Middle English through the Old French term 'singulier', reflecting its meaning related to being alone or unique.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, being single is viewed as a time for self-discovery and personal growth before entering a relationship.
Singles events and communities have emerged, promoting social connections without the pressure of romantic expectations.

Psychology

Studies show that single individuals often have more time for friendships and personal interests, leading to strong social networks.
The single lifestyle can foster independence and self-sufficiency, helping individuals to develop a strong sense of self.

Pop Culture

The term 'single' is widely used in the music industry to describe a song released individually, often as a hit track.
Television series and films often depict the lives of single characters, highlighting both the joys and challenges of being alone.

Statistics

Recent surveys indicate that a significant percentage of adults in urban areas identify as single, reflecting modern dating trends.
Many millennials and Gen Z individuals prioritize career and personal goals over relationships, leading to higher rates of singlehood.

Translations

Translations of the word "single" in other languages:

🇵🇹 solteiro

🇮🇳 एकल

🇩🇪 einzeln

🇮🇩 tunggal

🇺🇦 один

🇵🇱 pojedynczy

🇯🇵 シングル

🇫🇷 unique

🇪🇸 soltero

🇹🇷 tek

🇰🇷 싱글

🇸🇦 أعزب

🇨🇿 jediný

🇸🇰 jediný

🇨🇳 单一

🇸🇮 samski

🇮🇸 einn

🇰🇿 жалғыз

🇬🇪 ერთეული

🇦🇿 tək

🇲🇽 soltero

Word Frequency Rank

With position #363, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

...
360 higher
361 force
362 greater
363 single
364 basis
365 thing
366 told
...