once

[wʌns]

once Definition

  • 1on one occasion or for one time only
  • 2at some time in the past; formerly

Using once: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "once" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I have only been to Paris once.

  • Example

    Once, I used to work as a teacher.

  • Example

    Once you learn how to ride a bike, you never forget.

  • Example

    I will only say this once.

once Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for once

Antonyms for once

Phrases with once

  • once and for all

    finally and completely

    Example

    Let's settle this matter once and for all.

  • very rarely

    Example

    I only eat fast food once in a blue moon.

  • used to begin a fairy tale or children's story

    Example

    Once upon a time, there was a beautiful princess who lived in a castle.

Origins of once

from Old English 'anes', meaning 'once, at once'

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Summary: once in Brief

The adverb 'once' [wʌns] refers to something that happened on one occasion or for one time only, or something that happened in the past. It is often used in phrases like 'once and for all,' meaning finally and completely, and 'once in a blue moon,' meaning very rarely.

How do native speakers use this expression?