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Singling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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singling

[ˈsɪŋɡlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

isolating a person

Singling refers to the act of selecting or isolating a specific individual or object from a group. It can imply highlighting someone for attention, praise, or perhaps criticism. This term is often used in contexts where one is distinguished from others due to unique characteristics or behaviors. The concept of singling out someone is prevalent in social, educational, and competitive situations.

Synonyms

distinguishing, isolating, selecting.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher is singling out students for special recognition.
  • He felt like he was being singled out for his mistakes.
  • In the competition, she was singled out as the favorite to win.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Psychology

  • Singling someone out can affect their feelings, often leading to both positive recognition or negative feelings like isolation.
  • In group dynamics, singling out individuals can enhance or diminish their self-esteem based on the context and delivery.

Cultural Context

  • In storytelling and fables, singling out a character often highlights their unique qualities, making them relatable heroes or underdogs.
  • Many cultures have proverbs that emphasize the importance of individuality, teaching lessons through the singling out of certain traits.

Education

  • In educational settings, singling out a student can help with individual learning needs, but it can also create pressure.
  • Educational psychology suggests that recognizing unique talents within a group can motivate others and inspire teamwork.

Pop Culture

  • In music, the act of singling out a specific note or voice can create a memorable moment in a song.
  • Films often use plot devices that require singling characters out for dramatic effect, emphasizing their role in the storyline.

Origin of 'singling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'singling' originates from the Old English word 'singlan,' meaning to eliminate or pluck out.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved, often used to describe the act of selecting or distinguishing one from many.

The word 'singling' derives from the verb 'singled,' which is the past participle of 'single.' The root 'single' has its origins in the Latin word 'singulus,' meaning 'one, alone, or individual.' This Latin term evolved through the Old French 'singulier,' which means 'single or unique.' Over time, it's adopted into Middle English, where 'single' came to refer to individuality. The process of singling out associates with the idea of making something stand out or distinctly different from the rest. As use of 'singling' has evolved, it commonly takes on both positive and negative connotations in various contexts, reflecting its versatility in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,330, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.