single in 30 Seconds
- Noun: A person not married or in a romantic relationship.
- Also refers to someone living alone or a status on forms.
- Commonly used in social settings and official documents.
- Neutral term for relationship status.
- Core Meaning
- The primary meaning of 'single' as a noun refers to a person who is not married or in a romantic relationship. This is a common way to describe someone's relationship status.
- Living Alone
- It can also describe an individual who lives by themselves, irrespective of their marital status. This emphasizes their independent living situation.
- Official Status
- In official contexts, such as on forms or surveys, 'single' is used as a specific status category to denote someone who is not currently married. This is a standardized way to collect demographic information.
- Beyond Romance
- While the most common use relates to romantic partnerships, 'single' can sometimes refer to a single item or unit, though this is more common when 'single' is used as an adjective. As a noun, it strongly points to an individual's status.
- Social Perception
- The term 'single' can carry different social connotations depending on the culture and context. In some societies, it is seen as a temporary phase before marriage, while in others, it is a chosen lifestyle. Understanding this nuance helps in using the word appropriately.
- Formality
- The noun 'single' is generally neutral in formality. It is appropriate in everyday conversations, social settings, and most formal documents where relationship status is relevant. However, in very intimate or personal discussions, more descriptive terms might be preferred.
Many people are happy to be a single and focus on their careers.
She lived as a single mother for many years.
The census form asked if the respondent was married, divorced, widowed, or single.
- Describing Relationship Status
- The most frequent use of 'single' as a noun is to state or ask about someone's marital or romantic status. It's a direct way to categorize individuals in terms of their partnership. For example, 'He is a single.' or 'Are you single?' are common questions. This usage is prevalent in social introductions and when filling out forms.
- Indicating Independent Living
- 'Single' can also refer to someone living alone. This might be used in contexts discussing housing or lifestyle choices. For instance, 'The apartment is ideal for a single person.' implies it's suited for someone living by themselves, whether they are romantically unattached or not. This usage highlights autonomy and self-sufficiency.
- In Official Documents and Surveys
- Government forms, census data, and official registration documents often use 'single' as a specific category for individuals who are not married. This provides a clear, standardized data point. For example, a form might ask, 'Marital Status: Married, Divorced, Widowed, Single.' This ensures consistency in data collection across large populations.
- Context of Family and Social Structures
- When discussing family dynamics or social trends, 'single' can be used to refer to individuals who are not part of a couple. For example, 'The rise of the single parent household is a significant social trend.' Here, 'single' modifies 'parent' to describe a parent raising a child alone. However, when used as a noun, it refers to the individual themselves: 'She is a single, raising two children.' This usage emphasizes the individual's status within a family context.
- In Contrast to Partnerships
- 'Single' is often used in contrast to terms like 'married,' 'coupled,' or 'partnered.' This highlights the absence of a formal romantic or marital bond. For instance, 'The event is open to singles and couples.' This clearly delineates categories of attendees. It can also be used in discussions about dating or social events, such as 'a singles bar' or 'a dating app for singles.'
Many young adults choose to remain single for a period to focus on their personal growth.
The survey data showed a significant increase in the number of singles in urban areas.
Are you a single or do you have a partner?
- Social Gatherings and Events
- You'll frequently hear 'single' used in social contexts, particularly when discussing relationship statuses. Events might be advertised as 'for singles,' or people might ask each other, 'Are you single?' in casual conversation. This is a common way to gauge someone's availability or social standing in relation to romantic partnerships.
- Dating Apps and Websites
- Online dating platforms are a prime environment for the noun 'single.' Users often identify themselves as 'single,' and the services are designed to connect singles with each other. Descriptions and profiles frequently use this term to define the target audience.
- Surveys and Official Forms
- Government agencies, researchers, and businesses often use 'single' as a category in surveys and official documents. When collecting demographic data, such as marital status on a census form or application, 'single' is a standard option alongside 'married,' 'divorced,' or 'widowed.' This ensures a consistent way to classify individuals.
- Discussions About Lifestyle and Independence
- In conversations about personal choices, career focus, or independent living, people might refer to themselves or others as a 'single' to emphasize their current life stage. For example, 'She's living as a single in the city and enjoying her freedom.' This usage highlights autonomy and self-reliance, separate from marital status.
- Media and Entertainment
- Movies, TV shows, and articles often discuss the experiences of 'singles.' You might hear about 'singles' lifestyles,' 'dating advice for singles,' or 'the challenges faced by singles.' This reflects the societal recognition of this demographic group.
The nightclub was specifically designed for singles looking to meet new people.
On her profile, she clearly stated she was a single and interested in finding a long-term partner.
The census report highlighted the growing number of singles in the population.
- Confusing Noun and Adjective
- A common error is using 'single' as a noun when it should be an adjective, or vice versa. For instance, saying 'I am single' is correct when referring to relationship status. However, saying 'I bought a single' when you mean 'I bought a single room' or 'I bought a single ticket' is incorrect. As a noun, 'single' refers to a person; as an adjective, it describes a singular item or instance.
- Overgeneralization of 'Living Alone' Meaning
- While 'single' can imply living alone, it's not always the case. Someone who is married might still live alone temporarily. The primary meaning of 'single' as a noun is about relationship status. Mistakenly assuming that every 'single' person lives alone can lead to inaccurate assumptions about their living arrangements.
- Using 'Single' for Plural Groups
- 'Single' as a noun refers to one individual. It is incorrect to use it to refer to a group of unmarried people. Instead, one would say 'singles' (plural) or 'unmarried people.' For example, 'The event is for singles' is correct, but 'The event is for single' is not.
- Assuming Negative Connotations
- Some learners might perceive 'single' negatively, associating it with loneliness or incompleteness. While societal views vary, the word itself is neutral. Using it in a way that implies pity or judgment is a mistake in register and understanding. It's simply a descriptor of a relationship status.
- Incorrect Pluralization
- The plural form of 'single' (noun) is 'singles.' A common mistake is to use 'single' when referring to multiple unmarried individuals. For example, 'There were many single at the party' should be 'There were many singles at the party.' This applies when referring to a group of people who are all unmarried.
Incorrect: She bought a single for the trip.
Correct: She bought a single room/ticket for the trip.
Incorrect: He is a single living alone.
Correct: He is single and living alone. OR He is a single person living alone.
Incorrect: The party was for single.
Correct: The party was for singles.
- Unmarried
- 'Unmarried' is a direct synonym for 'single' when referring to relationship status. It is often used in more formal contexts or legal documents. For example, 'He is an unmarried man.' While 'single' can sometimes imply living alone, 'unmarried' strictly refers to the absence of marriage.
- Single person
- This phrase is a more explicit way to refer to an individual who is single. It avoids any ambiguity that might arise from using 'single' alone, especially if the context is unclear. For instance, 'She is a single person enjoying her independence.' This is a very common and safe alternative.
- Bachelor
- 'Bachelor' specifically refers to an unmarried man. It carries a slightly more traditional or sometimes even dated connotation. It is not applicable to women. Therefore, 'bachelor' is a much more restricted term than 'single.' 'She is not a bachelor; she is single.'
- Spinster
- 'Spinster' is an archaic term for an unmarried woman, especially an older one. It is now considered outdated and often carries negative or even derogatory connotations. It is rarely used in modern English except in historical contexts or ironic remarks. 'Single' is the modern, neutral term for both men and women.
- Independent
- While many singles are independent, 'independent' is not a direct synonym for 'single.' Independence refers to self-reliance and freedom from external control, which can apply to people in any relationship status. However, the lifestyle of being single often fosters a sense of independence, so the terms are sometimes associated.
- Alone
- 'Alone' refers to being by oneself, without company. While a single person might be alone, being alone does not necessarily mean someone is single. A married person could be temporarily alone. The term 'single' specifically addresses relationship status, whereas 'alone' addresses physical presence or companionship.
Comparison: 'Single' vs. 'Unmarried'. Both refer to not being married. 'Single' is more common in everyday speech, while 'unmarried' is more formal.
Comparison: 'Bachelor' (unmarried man) vs. 'Single' (any gender, unmarried). 'Single' is broader and more inclusive.
Comparison: 'Single' (relationship status) vs. 'Alone' (being by oneself). One can be single and not alone, or not single and alone.
How Formal Is It?
""
""
""
""
Fun Fact
The concept of 'single' has roots in ancient Roman society, where individual identity and status were crucial. The word's journey through Latin and French highlights its long-standing presence in European languages, emphasizing the fundamental idea of 'one.'
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'g' sound as 'j' (sin-jle).
- Making the 'i' sound too long (see-ngle).
- Adding an extra syllable or misplacing the stress.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'single' as a noun is very common and straightforward in its primary meaning related to relationship status. Learners at A1 level can easily grasp this usage. Context is key to differentiate it from its adjectival use.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 'to be' with adjectives and nouns.
Subject + 'to be' + adjective/noun. (e.g., 'She is single.' 'He is a doctor.')
Formation of plural nouns.
Most nouns form their plural by adding '-s'. (e.g., 'single' becomes 'singles').
Articles 'a' and 'an'.
'A' is used before words starting with a consonant sound. 'An' is used before words starting with a vowel sound. ('a single person', 'an umbrella').
Using prepositions with nouns.
Prepositions like 'for', 'of', 'with' often follow nouns. ('for singles', 'a group of singles', 'contentment with being single').
Adjective vs. Noun usage.
'Single' can be an adjective (a single room) or a noun (He is a single).
Examples by Level
I am single.
Eu sou solteiro/solteira.
Subject pronoun 'I' + verb 'to be' (am) + noun 'single'.
She is single.
Ela é solteira.
Subject pronoun 'She' + verb 'to be' (is) + noun 'single'.
He is a single man.
Ele é um homem solteiro.
Subject pronoun 'He' + verb 'to be' (is) + indefinite article 'a' + noun 'single' + noun 'man'.
Are you single?
Você é solteiro/solteira?
Question form: Verb 'to be' (Are) + subject pronoun 'you' + noun 'single'?
He lives as a single.
Ele vive como um solteiro.
Subject pronoun 'He' + verb 'lives' + preposition 'as' + indefinite article 'a' + noun 'single'.
Many people are single.
Muitas pessoas são solteiras.
Quantifier 'Many' + noun 'people' + verb 'to be' (are) + noun 'single'.
Is she a single?
Ela é solteira?
Question form: Verb 'to be' (Is) + subject pronoun 'she' + indefinite article 'a' + noun 'single'?
He is a single parent.
Ele é um pai solteiro.
Subject pronoun 'He' + verb 'to be' (is) + indefinite article 'a' + adjective 'single' + noun 'parent'. (Note: 'single' here functions as an adjective modifying 'parent', but the context relates to the parent's status).
The survey asked if the respondent was single.
A pesquisa perguntou se o respondente era solteiro.
Past tense of 'to be' (was) used with 'single' to describe a past state.
She prefers to remain single for now.
Ela prefere permanecer solteira por enquanto.
'Remain' + 'single' indicates a continuation of the status.
He is looking for a single room.
Ele está procurando um quarto individual.
Here, 'single' is an adjective modifying 'room', meaning one person's room, not the person being single.
The dating app is for singles.
O aplicativo de namoro é para solteiros.
Plural form 'singles' used to refer to a group of unmarried people.
She has been single for five years.
Ela está solteira há cinco anos.
Present perfect continuous ('has been') + 'single' to indicate duration.
It's a good time to be single and explore.
É um bom momento para ser solteiro e explorar.
'To be single' used in an infinitive phrase.
He's a devoted single father.
Ele é um pai solteiro dedicado.
'Single' as an adjective modifying 'father'.
The statistics showed a rise in the number of singles.
As estatísticas mostraram um aumento no número de solteiros.
Plural noun 'singles' used in a statistical context.
Many people choose to be single rather than settle for the wrong relationship.
Muitas pessoas escolhem ser solteiras em vez de se contentarem com o relacionamento errado.
'Choose to be single' expresses a conscious decision about relationship status.
The article discussed the challenges and freedoms of being a single parent.
O artigo discutiu os desafios e liberdades de ser um pai/mãe solteiro.
'Single parent' uses 'single' as an adjective to describe the parent's situation.
He identified himself as single on the application form.
Ele se identificou como solteiro no formulário de inscrição.
'Identified himself as single' is a formal way of stating relationship status.
The city has a vibrant community of singles.
A cidade tem uma comunidade vibrante de solteiros.
'Community of singles' refers to a social group of unmarried individuals.
She found that being single allowed her more time for travel and hobbies.
Ela descobriu que ser solteira lhe permitia mais tempo para viagens e hobbies.
'Being single' as a gerund phrase indicating the state of being single.
The event catered specifically to singles over the age of 30.
O evento atendeu especificamente a solteiros com mais de 30 anos.
'Singles' (plural) used with a prepositional phrase specifying a demographic.
He was a bachelor for many years before he decided to get married.
Ele foi um solteirão por muitos anos antes de decidir se casar.
'Bachelor' is a synonym for single man, often implying a longer period of being unmarried.
The statistics revealed that the proportion of singles in the workforce was increasing.
As estatísticas revelaram que a proporção de solteiros na força de trabalho estava aumentando.
'Proportion of singles' uses the plural noun in a formal demographic context.
The sociologist's research focused on the evolving social constructs surrounding the identity of the modern single.
A pesquisa do sociólogo focou nas construções sociais em evolução em torno da identidade do solteiro moderno.
'The modern single' refers to a contemporary archetype of an unmarried person.
She found empowerment in embracing her status as a single mother, dedicating herself to her children's future.
Ela encontrou empoderamento em abraçar seu status como mãe solteira, dedicando-se ao futuro de seus filhos.
'Single mother' uses 'single' as an adjective to emphasize the parent's sole responsibility.
The dating scene has shifted significantly, with more individuals opting to remain single until later in life.
O cenário de namoro mudou significativamente, com mais indivíduos optando por permanecer solteiros até mais tarde na vida.
'Opting to remain single' indicates a deliberate choice and a trend.
The novel explores the complex inner world of a protagonist who is contentedly single.
O romance explora o complexo mundo interior de uma protagonista que é contentemente solteira.
'Contentedly single' uses an adverb to describe the positive emotional state of being single.
The census data indicated a notable increase in households comprising a single occupant.
Os dados do censo indicaram um aumento notável em domicílios compostos por um único ocupante.
'Single occupant' uses 'single' as an adjective to describe the number of people in a household.
While some view being single as a transitional phase, others embrace it as a fulfilling lifestyle.
Embora alguns vejam o estado de solteiro como uma fase de transição, outros o abraçam como um estilo de vida gratificante.
'Being single' as a noun phrase representing the state of being unmarried.
The law firm specialized in representing singles navigating complex property division agreements.
O escritório de advocacia especializou-se em representar solteiros que lidam com complexos acordos de divisão de bens.
'Representing singles' uses the plural noun in a legal context.
Her independent spirit as a single woman allowed her to pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions without compromise.
Seu espírito independente como mulher solteira permitiu que ela perseguisse suas ambições empresariais sem compromisso.
'Single woman' uses 'single' as an adjective to describe the woman's status.
The cultural discourse surrounding the 'single' often oscillates between celebrating autonomy and pathologizing a perceived lack of connection.
O discurso cultural em torno do 'solteiro' oscila frequentemente entre celebrar a autonomia e patologizar uma percepção de falta de conexão.
'The single' used as a noun to refer to the concept or archetype of a single person in a cultural context.
Her memoir chronicles the profound self-discovery she underwent during her years as a self-sufficient single.
Sua autobiografia narra a profunda autodescoberta que ela passou durante seus anos como uma solteira autossuficiente.
'A self-sufficient single' uses 'single' as a noun with descriptive adjectives.
The demographic analysis revealed a significant cohort of 'childfree singles' prioritizing career and personal fulfillment.
A análise demográfica revelou uma coorte significativa de 'solteiros sem filhos' priorizando carreira e realização pessoal.
'Childfree singles' uses 'singles' as a noun modified by a compound adjective.
The societal pressure to couple up often marginalizes those who find genuine contentment in being single.
A pressão social para formar casais muitas vezes marginaliza aqueles que encontram contentamento genuíno em ser solteiros.
'Being single' as a gerund phrase representing the state of being unmarried, discussed in a societal context.
The legislation aimed to provide greater support for single-parent households, acknowledging the unique challenges they face.
A legislação visava fornecer maior apoio a lares monoparentais, reconhecendo os desafios únicos que eles enfrentam.
'Single-parent households' uses 'single' as an adjective to describe the family structure.
He navigated the complexities of modern dating as a single man, seeking authentic connection amidst a sea of superficiality.
Ele navegou pelas complexidades do namoro moderno como um homem solteiro, buscando conexão autêntica em meio a uma superficialidade.
'As a single man' uses 'single' as an adjective modifying 'man'.
The study highlighted the resilience of individuals who, by choice or circumstance, remain single throughout their lives.
O estudo destacou a resiliência de indivíduos que, por escolha ou circunstância, permanecem solteiros ao longo de suas vidas.
'Remain single' refers to the enduring state of being unmarried.
The rise of the 'gig economy' has created new opportunities and challenges for those identifying as singles.
O crescimento da 'economia gig' criou novas oportunidades e desafios para aqueles que se identificam como solteiros.
'Singles' as a plural noun in the context of economic and professional identity.
The philosophical underpinnings of existentialism resonate deeply with the lived experience of the autonomous single.
Os fundamentos filosóficos do existencialismo ressoam profundamente com a experiência vivida do solteiro autônomo.
'The autonomous single' uses 'single' as a noun modified by a sophisticated adjective, referring to a specific philosophical or psychological construct.
Her magnum opus deconstructs the societal archetypes of femininity, offering a nuanced perspective on the empowered single woman.
Sua obra-prima desconstrói os arquétipos sociais da feminilidade, oferecendo uma perspectiva nuançada sobre a mulher solteira empoderada.
'The empowered single woman' uses 'single' as an adjective within a highly analytical description.
The contemporary socio-political landscape increasingly acknowledges the multifaceted identities within the 'singles' demographic, moving beyond monolithic portrayals.
O cenário sociopolítico contemporâneo reconhece cada vez mais as identidades multifacetadas dentro da demografia dos 'solteiros', indo além de representações monolíticas.
'The 'singles' demographic' uses the plural noun in a highly specialized sociological and statistical context.
He meticulously curated his life as a single individual, prioritizing intellectual pursuits and profound personal relationships outside the conventional marital framework.
Ele curou meticulosamente sua vida como um indivíduo solteiro, priorizando buscas intelectuais e relacionamentos pessoais profundos fora da estrutura conjugal convencional.
'A single individual' uses 'single' as an adjective to emphasize uniqueness and independence.
The novel's protagonist grapples with the existential ennui often associated with the prolonged state of being single in a hyper-connected yet isolating world.
A protagonista do romance lida com o tédio existencial frequentemente associado ao estado prolongado de ser solteiro em um mundo hiperconectado, porém isolador.
'The prolonged state of being single' uses 'being single' as a noun phrase to represent a condition.
Her groundbreaking research illuminated the psychological resilience required to navigate the complexities of maintaining a fulfilling life as a single parent.
Sua pesquisa inovadora iluminou a resiliência psicológica necessária para navegar pelas complexidades de manter uma vida gratificante como pai/mãe solteiro.
'As a single parent' uses 'single' as an adjective to denote the parent's sole responsibility.
The evolving societal norms have led to a greater acceptance and celebration of individuals who choose to remain single by choice, rather than by default.
As normas sociais em evolução levaram a uma maior aceitação e celebração de indivíduos que escolhem permanecer solteiros por escolha, em vez de por padrão.
'Remain single by choice' emphasizes agency in maintaining the status.
The economic implications for singles in retirement planning are often overlooked, necessitating a more tailored approach to financial advisory services.
As implicações econômicas para solteiros no planejamento da aposentadoria são frequentemente negligenciadas, necessitando de uma abordagem mais personalizada para os serviços de consultoria financeira.
'For singles in retirement planning' uses the plural noun in a sophisticated financial and demographic context.
Synonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— A direct question asking about someone's relationship status.
When meeting someone new, a common question is, 'Are you single?'
— A statement declaring one's relationship status.
In response to the question, she simply replied, 'I am single.'
— A parent who raises a child or children alone, without a partner.
Single parents often face unique challenges in balancing work and family life.
— A hotel room intended for one person.
I'd like to book a single room for one night, please.
— Indicates something is intended for or targets unmarried people.
The speed dating event was advertised as being 'for singles only.'
— To remain unmarried or unpartnered.
She decided to stay single for a few more years to concentrate on her studies.
— Similar to 'stay single,' implying a continued state of not being married or partnered.
Many people choose to remain single rather than compromise their values.
— To live independently without a spouse or romantic partner.
He enjoys the freedom of living as a single and pursuing his hobbies.
— The state of a room or space being occupied by only one person.
Please note that this price is based on single occupancy.
Often Confused With
The word 'single' is also an adjective meaning 'one' or 'individual'. For example, 'a single ticket' or 'a single room'. As a noun, it refers specifically to a person.
'Alone' means without others, which can describe a single person but also someone who is married but temporarily by themselves. 'Single' specifically refers to relationship status.
'Bachelor' is for unmarried men, and 'spinster' is an outdated term for unmarried women. 'Single' is gender-neutral and more common.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be content and satisfied with one's status as being unmarried or unpartnered.
She is happily single and finds fulfillment in her friendships and career.
Informal— To date multiple people without committing to a serious relationship, often associated with being single.
He's been playing the field for a while, enjoying his freedom as a single.
Informal— An outdated and often negative idiom implying that someone, usually a woman, is unmarried and likely to remain so, suggesting they are undesirable.
In older times, people might have worried about a woman being 'on the shelf,' but today, being single is widely accepted.
Archaic/Negative— An adult man who is decided or appears determined never to marry.
Uncle John has always been a confirmed bachelor, preferring his books and quiet life.
Informal/Slightly dated— To do something alone, without help. While not directly about relationship status, it emphasizes individual capability, often associated with the independence of being single.
She managed to run the entire project single-handedly.
Neutral— To choose or identify someone or something from a group for special attention, criticism, or praise.
The teacher singled out the student for his excellent performance.
Neutral— Arranged one behind another in a line.
The children lined up in single file to enter the classroom.
Neutral— To select one item or person from a group.
From the many applicants, they were able to single out the most qualified candidate.
Neutral— To target someone for criticism or blame.
He felt unfairly singled out for punishment.
Informal/Negative— Having or showing determination to achieve only one thing; focused.
She was single-minded in her pursuit of academic excellence.
NeutralEasily Confused
The word 'single' has both noun and adjective forms, leading to potential confusion.
As a noun, 'single' refers to a person who is not married or in a romantic relationship. As an adjective, 'single' means one, individual, or separate (e.g., 'a single ticket', 'a single room').
Incorrect: 'I bought a single for the train.' Correct: 'I bought a single ticket for the train.' (Here, 'single' is an adjective). Correct: 'Are you single?' (Here, 'single' is a noun).
Both terms can imply being without a partner or company.
'Single' specifically denotes relationship status (not married or partnered). 'Alone' refers to being physically by oneself, without company, regardless of marital status. A married person can be alone, and a single person might not always be alone.
He is single and lives alone. (Both apply). She is married but felt alone at the party. (Married, but alone).
Both terms relate to the absence of marriage.
'Single' is a more general term for relationship status, encompassing never-married, divorced, or widowed individuals in common usage. 'Unmarried' is a more formal and precise term that strictly means not having entered into marriage.
On a form, you might select 'Single.' In a legal document, it might state 'unmarried individual.'
These are related terms for people not married.
'Bachelor' specifically refers to an unmarried man and can sometimes sound dated. 'Spinster' is an archaic and often offensive term for an unmarried woman. 'Single' is the most common, neutral, and gender-inclusive term for anyone not married or partnered.
He is a single man. (Neutral). He is a bachelor. (Specific to male). She is a single woman. (Neutral). She is a spinster. (Outdated/Offensive).
Confusion arises from using the singular form when a plural is needed.
'Single' (noun) refers to one person. 'Singles' (noun, plural) refers to multiple unmarried people. This is similar to other noun plurals.
Incorrect: 'The party was for single.' Correct: 'The party was for singles.'
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 'to be' + single.
I am single.
Subject + 'to be' + 'a' + single.
She is a single.
Question: 'to be' + Subject + single?
Are you single?
Preposition + singles.
This is for singles.
Subject + verb + single.
He prefers to stay single.
Noun + of + singles.
A large number of singles attended.
'Being single' + verb.
Being single has its advantages.
The + single + noun (abstract concept).
The modern single faces new challenges.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Using 'single' as a noun when it should be an adjective.
→
She bought a single ticket.
In 'She bought a single ticket,' 'single' describes the ticket (one ticket), so it's an adjective. If referring to a person's status, 'single' is a noun: 'She is single.'
-
Using the singular 'single' when referring to multiple people.
→
The event is for singles.
When referring to more than one unmarried person, the plural form 'singles' should be used, just like other countable nouns.
-
Confusing 'single' with 'alone'.
→
He is single and lives alone.
'Single' refers to relationship status (not married/partnered). 'Alone' means without company. A married person can be alone, and a single person might not always be alone.
-
Using outdated or offensive terms.
→
She is a single woman.
Terms like 'spinster' are archaic and often offensive. 'Single' is the modern, neutral, and inclusive term for someone not married.
-
Assuming 'single' always means living alone.
→
She is single and lives with her family.
While many singles live alone, it's not a defining characteristic. 'Single' primarily refers to relationship status, not necessarily living arrangements.
Tips
Plural Form
When referring to multiple unmarried people, use the plural form 'singles.' For example, 'The event is for singles.'
Neutral Term
'Single' is a neutral and widely accepted term for relationship status. Avoid using outdated or potentially offensive terms like 'spinster' unless in a historical context.
Stress and Sounds
The stress is on the first syllable: SIN-gul. Ensure you pronounce the short 'i' sound and the hard 'g' sound correctly.
Association
Associate 'single' with the idea of 'one' or 'individual' to remember its core meaning when used as a noun.
Sentence Building
Practice using 'single' in sentences describing yourself or others, covering relationship status, lifestyle, and official categories.
Modern Acceptance
Understand that in many cultures, being single is increasingly viewed as a valid and fulfilling lifestyle choice, not just a phase before marriage.
Single vs. Alone
Remember that 'single' relates to relationship status, while 'alone' relates to being without company. They are not interchangeable.
Finding Alternatives
While 'single' is common, consider 'unmarried' for formal contexts or 'single person' for clarity.
Forms and Data
Be aware that 'single' is a standard category on many official forms for marital status.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person standing alone on a stage, spotlight on them. They are the 'single' star of the show, unique and by themselves. This visual helps remember that 'single' refers to an individual.
Visual Association
Picture a single playing card, like the Ace of Spades, standing out from a deck. Or think of a single red balloon floating away from a bunch.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use the word 'single' as a noun in three different sentences describing relationship status, living situations, or official categories within the next hour.
Word Origin
The word 'single' comes from the Latin word 'singulus,' meaning 'one by one, each.' This evolved into Old French 'cingle' and then into Middle English 'singel.' The core idea has always been about individuality and being one unit.
Original meaning: Individually counted, one of each kind.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > French > EnglishCultural Context
While 'single' is a neutral term, be mindful of context. Avoid using it in a way that implies pity or judgment. Some individuals may prefer terms like 'unpartnered' or 'in a relationship' (if they are in one but not married). However, 'single' remains the most common and widely accepted descriptor.
In English-speaking countries, 'single' is the standard, neutral term for someone not married. It's used across all age groups and social strata. The plural 'singles' often refers to groups of unmarried people, as in 'singles events' or 'singles bars.'
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Relationship Status Discussions
- Are you single?
- I am single.
- She's single.
- He's single.
Official Forms and Surveys
- Marital Status: Single
- Single (not married)
- Number of singles
Social Events and Groups
- An event for singles
- A singles bar
- The singles club
Family and Living Arrangements
- Single parent
- Single father
- Single mother
- A single room
- Single occupancy
Personal Lifestyle Choices
- Choose to be single
- Enjoy being single
- Live as a single
Conversation Starters
"What are some of the benefits of being single?"
"Do you think it's harder to be single now than it was in the past?"
"What's your opinion on 'singles' events?"
"How has the definition of 'single' changed over the years?"
"What are some common misconceptions about people who are single?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when you felt empowered by being single.
Reflect on the societal expectations surrounding relationships and how they affect single individuals.
What does 'independence' mean to you, and how does it relate to being single?
Imagine you are writing a guide for someone who has recently become single. What advice would you give them?
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of being single in today's world.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsAs a noun, 'single' primarily refers to a person who is not married or in a committed romantic relationship. It's a direct way to state someone's relationship status.
Yes, 'single' can sometimes imply living alone, especially when used in phrases like 'ideal for a single.' However, its core noun meaning is about relationship status, and a single person doesn't always live alone, nor does everyone living alone have to be single.
No, 'single' is a neutral term. While societal views on being single can vary, the word itself simply describes a relationship status without judgment.
The plural form is 'singles.' For example, 'The event is for singles.'
'Single' is more common in everyday conversation and refers generally to someone not married or partnered. 'Unmarried' is more formal and specifically means not having entered into marriage. Both are correct, but 'single' is more widely used.
Historically, there were terms like 'bachelor' for men and 'spinster' for women. However, 'single' is now the standard, gender-neutral term for both.
On official forms (like census data or applications), 'single' is a common category for marital status, indicating that the person is not married.
Yes, 'single' is also an adjective meaning 'one' or 'individual,' such as in 'a single ticket' or 'a single room.' This is different from its noun usage referring to a person.
Being 'single' refers to relationship status (not married or partnered). Being 'alone' means being without company. You can be single and not alone, or married and feel alone.
You'll hear 'single' frequently in social conversations, on dating apps, in discussions about lifestyle, and on official forms or surveys.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
As a noun, 'single' primarily refers to an individual who is not married or in a committed romantic partnership. It is a neutral and widely understood term used in everyday conversation, official forms, and demographic analysis to describe relationship status.
- Noun: A person not married or in a romantic relationship.
- Also refers to someone living alone or a status on forms.
- Commonly used in social settings and official documents.
- Neutral term for relationship status.
Context is Key
Always pay attention to the context. 'Single' as a noun refers to a person's relationship status. As an adjective, it means 'one' or 'individual' (e.g., 'a single room').
Plural Form
When referring to multiple unmarried people, use the plural form 'singles.' For example, 'The event is for singles.'
Neutral Term
'Single' is a neutral and widely accepted term for relationship status. Avoid using outdated or potentially offensive terms like 'spinster' unless in a historical context.
Stress and Sounds
The stress is on the first syllable: SIN-gul. Ensure you pronounce the short 'i' sound and the hard 'g' sound correctly.
Example
As a single, he enjoys traveling around the world alone.
Related Content
See it in Videos
13:02
We Set Up a Couple in 2015 & They Got MARRIED! w/ The Jonas Brothers & Norah Jones
"As a single, he enjoys traveling around the world alone."
13:03
The Last Late Late Show: Chapter 6 - The Final Day
"As a single, he enjoys traveling around the world alone."
1:16
3 Things to know from The Android Show: Summer '25
"The single is important."
Learn it in Context
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More Family words
relative
A1A relative is a person who is part of your family. It describes anyone you are connected to by blood or marriage, such as a cousin, aunt, or grandparent.
gather
A1A gather is a small meeting or assembly of people, such as family members, coming together in one place. It is also used to describe a small fold in fabric where the material is pulled together.
reunion
A1A reunion is a planned event where people who have not seen each other for a long time meet again. It is most common for families, school friends, or former co-workers to have these gatherings.
grandma
A1An informal and affectionate term for a grandmother, defined as the mother of one's father or mother. It is a common family title used in everyday conversation.
father’s
B1The word "father's" is the possessive form of the noun "father." It is used to indicate that something belongs to, is related to, or is associated with a father. This form is created by adding an apostrophe followed by an 's' to the word 'father'.
mom
A1A mom is a female parent who cares for and raises her children. It is a warm and informal name used to call or talk about one's mother.
grandparent
A1A grandparent is the parent of one's father or mother. It is a general term that refers to either a grandfather or a grandmother within a family structure.
daughter
A1A daughter is a female child or person in relation to her parents. It refers to the biological or legal relationship of a girl or woman to her mother and father.
sibling
A1A sibling is a brother or a sister. It is a general word used to describe people who have the same parents, regardless of their gender.
forgive
A1To stop feeling angry at someone who has done something wrong or made a mistake. It means you accept their apology and decide to move forward without being upset anymore.
