# single out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/single-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To select (someone or something) from a group and highlight them or treat them differently.

## Examples

- The teacher did not want to single out any specific student.
- During the meeting, the manager decided to single out Sarah for her excellent work on the project.
- Although the entire team contributed to the success, the director chose to single out the lead architect for special recognition during the ceremony.

## Origin

From the archaic intransitive verb *single*, meaning to take alone or one by one, combined with the particle *out*. The construction is first attested in 1629.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.