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Processed with VS1Explore how “single” shifts from relationship status to focus, selection, and arrangement.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode uses “single” in several senses: not being in a romantic relationship, selecting one person or thing, sharing the same opinion, and moving one behind another. These meanings show how one word can appear in different parts of speech and phrases. Relationship status does not tell you whether someone is happy, lonely, or looking for a partner.
Cultural note: The original story is set around Valentine’s Day and includes social assumptions about couples. People have different relationship histories and preferences; do not treat being single as a problem to solve or assume anyone wants to date.
Keep exploringIn one story, “single” describes relationship status, careful selection, shared thinking, and a line of people. Listen for how grammar and context change its meaning.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Use “single” without making assumptions about someone’s life.
Meaning
Not currently in a romantic relationship; in other contexts, one individual item or person.
Tone & use
The meaning depends on context. Do not infer someone’s feelings or preferences from their relationship status.
Example
“Nadia is single, enjoys her independent routine, and may or may not choose to date.”
Describe choosing one person or sharing one point of view.
Meaning
Choose one person or item from a group for special attention.
Tone & use
Can be positive, neutral, or critical depending on why someone is selected.
Example
“The panel singled out one clear example to discuss in detail.”
Meaning
Focused strongly on one aim or idea.
Tone & use
Can praise determination or suggest someone is not considering other needs or views.
Example
“Her single-minded focus helped complete the draft, though she still made time to hear the team’s concerns.”
Talk about lines and small steps forward.
Meaning
One person or item following another in a line.
Tone & use
Common for movement through a narrow space or organized queue.
Example
“The hikers crossed the narrow bridge in single file.”
Meaning
One action or stage; often used to emphasize that progress begins with a small move.
Tone & use
A common phrase in advice and planning. It does not guarantee that a larger goal will be easy.
Example
“The project felt manageable once we chose a single step to take today.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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