1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To choose one person or thing from a group and direct special (often negative) attention toward them.
"The teacher always seemed to single him out for extra criticism in front of the class."
separable
single out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To choose or identify one person or thing from a group for special attention, treatment, or criticism.
In plain English
To pick out just one person or thing from a group and give them special attention — often in a way that feels unfair.
What does "single out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To select one person or thing from a group for praise, recognition, or a specific purpose.
"The report singles out three countries for their outstanding progress on climate goals."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To separate out a single item from a group — the physical act of isolating one from many.
Actually means
To pick out just one person or thing from a group and give them special attention — often in a way that feels unfair.
Usage tip
Often carries a slightly negative connotation — the person singled out may feel unfairly targeted. However, it can also be positive (singled out for praise). Common in school, workplace, sports, and political contexts. Used in both British and American English.
Words that pair with "single out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
praise criticism punishment honor attention example
How to conjugate "single out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
single out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
singles out
he/she/it
Past simple
singled out
yesterday
Past participle
singled out
have + pp
-ing form
singling out
continuous
Hear "single out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "single out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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