ENGLISH
REFERENCE

one after another

idiom
Meaning

In single file.


Origin

disputed origin

Dates back at least to Old English ān æfter ōþrum, of the same meaning.

Examples
SIMPLE

The children walked into the room one after another.

CONTEXTUAL

The guests arrived one after another, so the host had plenty of time to greet everyone.

COMPLEX

As the storm intensified, the small boats returned to the harbor one after another, seeking shelter from the rising waves.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    another nail in someone's coffin

    An event that increases the likelihood of or causes further failure.

  2. 02

    another string to one's bow

    Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.

  3. 03

    as best one can

    In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.

  4. 04

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  5. 05

    back to square one

    Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.

  6. 06

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  7. 07

    become one flesh

    To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.

  8. 08

    bite off more than one can chew

    To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.

Last updated April 17, 2026