Definition of once in English:

once

adverb wʌnswəns

1On one occasion or for one time only.
they deliver once a week
informal he'd only met her the once
Example sentencesExamples
- The defeat means Sweden have still only once been past the second round stage since 1974.
- But after hearing that he had breached the conditions once in the past the judge decided not to alter where he is to live.
- Only once in the past 11 seasons have Everton finished in the top half of the upper echelons of the English game.
- I have already written about this once on my website and I can assure you I will be doing so again tomorrow.
- They have done this once - who can say that they will not try again?
- I've seen something like this once before but it's certainly not something you come across everyday.
- Instead of delivering twice a day, including in the morning, it now delivers once, at lunchtime.
- I've only seen it once in the past year at 2 in the morning and I remember watching it as a child.
- The study found the majority of consumers have bought products at least once in the past year because they were on promotion.
- Her daughter has only been to school only once in the past two weeks.
- I was sure I'd done this once, and it appears to have not worked, so I've done it again.
- Limited tickets are still available for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
- I'm only going to say this once: there are obviously more stirring things to read in the weeklies.
- Only once in the past seven years have the club ended a top-flight campaign among the first five.
- Anyone who'd seen the news even once in the past few years knew war would happen soon.
- I had done this once before and managed it OK, but today I got tired about two thirds of the way round and had to walk.
- More than once Walt has caught her talking to herself when in fact she was speaking to Fred.
- And really, I only have to do this once a year, so I am only losing one Sunday out of a possible 52.
- We must all have wardrobes wherein hang dresses three sizes too small and jackets worn once in the past decade.
- Lord Lansdowne said the estate has only covered its losses once in the past 13 years.
Synonyms
on one occasion, one time, one single time
1. 1.1usually with negative or "if" On even one occasion; at all (used for emphasis)
  he never once complained
  if she once got an idea in her head you'd never move it
  Example sentencesExamples
  Not once has my doctor ever bothered to ask me about what I eat or if I exercise.
  Not once did he say anything about the things I was interested in.
  His attention to detail was second to none and not once did anyone complain about his ability to tell it as it was.
  She knew how tired he must be after all that he'd endured, but he had not complained once.
  Otherwise, the game is remarkably stable - didn't crash once on my machine.
  By midday, Ashley was tired, hungry and her back was throbbing, but she never once complained.
  Not once did he complain about me blocking his view even though I kept moving to look up.
  We were putting in a twelve hour day for absolutely zero pay, and we never once complained.
  They recognized that if they once conceded the moral principle, even in extreme cases, their legal position would become untenable.
  Nona's response was to convince herself that Faith had never existed and did not once visit her in the asylum.
  He never once complained and was a favourite with every single member of the staff.
  Synonyms
  ever, at any time, on any occasion, at all, under any circumstances, on any account, in a million years
2At some time in the past; formerly.
Gran had once been a famous singer
Example sentencesExamples
- Let us know some of the songs, clothes and memories from your past which you once cherished.
- They were once citizens of the same country as Russians, and they share the same past and historical fate.
- Think of someone who was once young and vital, now old, battered, semi-literate and living off the social.
- Violent death and loss have taken the life of this once powerful businessman - twisted it, broken it and turned it inside out.
- Now 70, he is an inveterate inventor, the kind that Britain was once famous for.
- The field was once part of a terrace of the Whitton Dene manor house and it seems that the trouble began when it was filled in with material to even it out.
- We strolled through a stone gateway, past high walls which once fully enclosed the complex.
- Post that was once delivered in just a day within the city now takes four to five days, old-timers note.
- For this once booming town in the former Democratic Republic of Germany now has a more dubious claim to fame.
- I walked past the once crowded video rack which now contained only two items.
- I visited the once famous Micklegate run last Friday night and had a pint in the Firkin public house.
- Labels tell the public how to cook the food - this was once part of the of the family butcher's role.
- It was a strange and eerie feeling riding through the near deserted streets of this once great city that I had read and seen so many films about.
- What were once artists' homes now contain offices, flats and the headquarters of the German Arts Council.
- The famous estate was once owned by the Viner family who sold it in 1966.
- Montreal once had a famous family of peregrines living on the Sun Life building.
- Last week, however, this once great company declared itself insolvent.
- City life has changed the face of this once quiet and residential area.
- No longer can they exert the authority on major occasions that was once their hallmark.
- Nowadays, this once controversial play is on the Irish school curriculum.
Synonyms
formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago
3Multiplied by one.
once two is two

conjunction wʌnswəns

As soon as; when.
once the grapes were pressed, the juice was put into barrels
Example sentencesExamples
- The day started at a quarter past six and once the cows were milked, the milk would go to the dairy.
- But such a collection of dictators could become a tourist attraction once freedom comes to the country.
- Most of the projects proved that once students put on their thinking caps, nothing could stop them!
- Sevenoaks Motor Club understood that once improvements had been finished it could resume racing in the park.
- Make no mistake, there are many who would love to see O'Leary fail and are waiting in the wings to pounce once things start to go wrong.
- And who is there to offer support for the homeless once Christmas is over?
- The Echo will publish information on the community petition once details are finalised.
- Thinner roots are planted horizontally in trays of compost and potted up individually once shoots have developed.
- But once people have children, few can ever be truly emotionally free again.
- In his experience employers in the Dublin area have had no problem with this once it was pointed out to them.
- I challenge anyone to dispute this once they have accurate knowledge and some experience of what most councillors do.
- But Eugenie says that once men have the know-how, they look wonderful dancing salsa.
- I will comment further on this once I have had a chance to fully digest it myself.
- The date of commencement will be confirmed once people have indicated an interest in taking part.
- I'll comment on this once I've had a chance to print it out on Monday.
- It's nice looking, well made furniture and will look fantastic once it's been delivered in a few weeks.
- Adriano soon wasted a chance but once Ghana overcame early stage fright they began to dominate.
- Most went to the beach this afternoon once Joe had finished school.
- But once drivers had cleared the roundabouts, they were able to make progress towards the coast.
- He says once people see better services start rolling out next year, they'll think the sale is a good thing.
Synonyms
as soon as, when, after, immediately after, the instant/moment/second/minute
British informal immediately

Phrases

all at once

1Suddenly.
all at once the noise stopped
Example sentencesExamples
- We were in the process of writing a new song and I knew all at once that these words would fit it perfectly.
- But all at once, in the midst of his gay careless life came his tragedy; he fell in love with a hatter's wife.
- Through it all, he is optimistic that he can succeed, not all at once, but over time.
- Engineers preparing to replace the cables and computers discovered that the cables had degraded so much over the past 50 years that the work needed to be done all at once.
- The sounds struck her all at once, as if the volume on her ears had suddenly been turned up.
- The problem with most smokers is that they try giving up all at once.
- The experienced safari guides seem to have an innate empathy with the nature all around, and all at once you feel at ease.
- When he finally did put her words together, it hit him all at once like a ton of bricks.
Synonyms
suddenly, abruptly, immediately, instantaneously, instantly, in an instant, straight away, all of a sudden, at once, all at once, promptly, in a trice, swiftly
2All at the same time.
a lot of beans are ready all at once
Example sentencesExamples
- I pointed to them and as she reached out to hand me a few, the picture of us suddenly made me want to laugh and cry all at once.
- Everything was suddenly catching up with me all at once, and I could barely separate one realisation from the other.
- Add the bean sprouts all at once and leave for 20 seconds, then add the spring onions, stir well, and drain.
- Daycare's about keeping everyone happy and busy and distracted all at once.
- She was nervous and excited and anxious and hundreds of other things all at once.
- Cost-wise, it makes sense to collect several updates together and release them all at once.
- Now it doesn't take much arithmetic to work out that you can't give a hot meal to 17 people all at once.
- Set up a group list with all your buds' e-mail addresses, and write to them all at once.
- The dancers mix it up quite a bit, performing together all at once, as well as in trios, duos and solo pieces.
- Twenty-two years of diving and never a sniff of one of the leviathans of the sea, then suddenly dozens of whale sharks turn up all at once.
Synonyms
together, all together, as a group, in a body, as one, as a whole, in a mass, wholesale

at once

1Immediately.
I fell asleep at once
Example sentencesExamples
- Dust the soufflés with icing sugar and serve at once with the chocolate sauce and fresh berries.
- The call goes to Birkenshaw who have files on all the area and can direct a fire crew to me at once.
- Mr Lane urged any parents who have concerns about the disease to seek medical help at once.
- In most companies, employees have got used to going back to work at once after lunch.
- Campaigners fighting to keep homes for the elderly open urged the Council to spend the pot of cash at once.
- Anyone with concerns is asked to contact their nearest health centre at once.
- When using oil, the mixture should be combined as quickly as possible, then baked at once.
- He had seen his future wife Nancy when she was only 13 and decided at once that she was the only girl for him.
- If it is broken it must be used at once, for it discolours and spoils quickly.
- There would have been every reason for them to have made such facts public at once.
Synonyms
immediately, right away, right now, this instant, this minute, this moment, this second, now, straight away, instantly, instantaneously, directly, suddenly, abruptly, summarily, forthwith, promptly, without delay, without hesitation, without further ado
2At the same time; simultaneously.
computers that can do many things at once
Example sentencesExamples
- A few trains arrived at once and all of a sudden thousands swarmed the exit all pushing and miserable.
- Fast bowlers are a bit like buses, none for ages and then two come along at once.
- Everything is happening at once at the moment, in a manner that is proving really rather hard to deal with.
- There was a slow churning of his thought processes as two ideas came together at once.
- In the low light of the gallery the effect is at once beautiful and rather ominous.
- Blogger has suddenly started emailing me comments again so they all arrived at once.
- Most games that try to do a lot of things at once fall apart at the seams, so both of these are something special.
- He's trying to do his job but he can't be everywhere and see everything at once.
- A mean, penetrating rain, the type that comes at you from all directions at once.
- The months seem to be slipping by very quickly now, and I'm working on two issues at once at the moment.
Synonyms
at the same time, at one and the same time, at the same instant, at the same moment, together, all together, simultaneously

for once (or this once)

On this occasion only, as an exception.
I hope you'll forgive me this once
Example sentencesExamples
- In the circumstances I am prepared to overlook the swearing - just this once.
- Just this once, ‘fun for all the family’ need not fill an adult audience with dread.
- But just this once, just for a few moments today I felt socially useful.
- The day stayed dry and the sun shone occasionally, and for once there were only a few spots of rain.
- It should not form a precedent, but rather should be done as an emergency measure just this once.
- The painter did not think it would be fun, just this once, to install a window.
- She was going to overcome her shy nature this once just for him, because he was worth it.
- Well, all right, write about it this once and I won't kick up the fuss.
- They're calling it the deal of all deals, and for once you can forgive the hyperbole.
- Not being a fan of fancy dress, I decided to let myself go just this once to fully appreciate the Rocky Horror experience.

once a —, always a —

proverb A person cannot change their fundamental nature.
once a whinger, always a whinger
Example sentencesExamples
- As far as the Catholicism goes, there is a school of thought that says, ‘once a Catholic, always a Catholic’.
- Our position is, once a criminal, always a criminal and we will keep you in jail forever, and if we do let you out, we expect you back in three years anyway.
- I was strictly a drummer, and once a drummer, always a drummer - the way I play is very rhythmic, very percussive.

once again (or more)

One more time.
Example sentencesExamples
- They now live at an address they have asked us to keep secret for fear the yobs will catch up with them once more.
- Now the company is involved in the scheme once again and plans are back on track.
- I have returned refreshed from Blackpool and am in custody of my own laptop once more.
- The team is training at the club once more and is looking to recruit players for next season.
- Recently he had had a lot of personal problems and once more turned to alcohol for comfort.
- No surprise then that the idea of a national identity card is once again being considered.
- When we've done that place up to our liking, we'll sell it ready to move on once more.
- We were impressed but once more became hopelessly lost as we attempted to leave the city.
- Two weeks ago children were looking forward to being able to play outdoors once again.
- We are hoping that once again you will help us out by selling some or all of the tickets.
Synonyms
again, once more, once again, a second time, afresh, over again

once and for all (or once for all)

Now and for the last time; finally.
Example sentencesExamples
- Several months earlier he had still been despairing over the work and no doubt wondering whether another seizure would leave him speechless once for all.
- I'd appreciate any information which serves to conclude this dispute once and for all.
- This is one issue that residents and pedestrians would like to see completed once and for all.
- We first meet her in a rehab facility, vowing to kick the habit once and for all.
- After all, surely this organisation could put the matter to rest once and for all.
- If there had ever been any doubters, they were silenced once and for all.
- It is better to strengthen your determination and stop smoking once for all rather than slowing it down.
- It is time that the Government found a solution to this problem once and for all.
- THis time the vet gave him some drops to kill the fleas once and for all.
- The aim should surely be to end these meetings once and for all, because all the goals have been reached.
Synonyms
conclusively, decisively, finally, positively, absolutely, determinedly, definitely, definitively, irrevocably
for good, for always, forever, permanently, finally, in perpetuity

once and future

Denoting someone or something that is eternal or enduring.
side two contains four once and future hit singles
Example sentencesExamples
- Ed Balls, the chancellor's once and future righthand man, gave every indication in the Commons that drastic action could be taken.
- To pretend otherwise, to present herself as the once and future champion of a sovereign Britain, was to utter a whopper of leviathan proportions.
- I was driven to The Docks by my once and future boyfriend, Olivier, who works out at the gym roughly 17 times a week.
- Whether he likes it or not, Andy Reid is a once and future hero in Philadelphia, where his name initially generated jeers, not cheers.
- Your book deals with the once and future threat of smallpox.
- The government in Bonn packed its bags and relocated to the Reichstag, the once and future capitol edifice - meaning Berlin had to fit the bill as a nation's capital.
- The latter similarly sprang from a private association that dates to 1975, when the Cold War often shaped cultural strategies in Germany's once and future capital.
- It's not entirely clear whether he's speculating how our once and future republic might defend itself, or giving tips to the present state.
- The once and future Hollywood legend would like to sell you a few things via set-top box on his expanding interactive platform.
- When the numbers were announced for the second ballot, the once and future national chief had five more votes than he needed to bring the election to an end.

once (or every once) in a while

From time to time; occasionally.
Example sentencesExamples
- I dip into my comments section and reply every once in a while, mostly to show people that I read them.
- Every once in a while, it's a good idea to turn away from world events and take a look at the issues on one's doorstep.
- He introduced himself to me and asked if I'd like him to visit once in a while on his rounds.
- Every once in a while, friends and friends-of-friends come to live with us.
- If, once in a while, we all take responsibility for our own doings maybe then we can all get on with a better life.
- Does she want her husband to say thank you once in a while, or help her out or just not go fishing at all?
- But they do have a cute blog which you should check out every once in a while.
- Just once in a while, I stumble on a little piece of evidence that proves the world is as mad as I'm starting to think it is.
- He'd come back to the house every once in a while, blind drunk, making everyone's life a misery.
- Every once in a while, a science fiction film comes along that really shakes things up.
Synonyms
occasionally, from time to time, now and again, now and then, every now and again, every now and then, every so often, every once in a while, on occasion, on occasions, on the odd occasion, at times, sometimes, off and on, at intervals, periodically, sporadically, spasmodically, erratically, irregularly, intermittently, by fits and starts, in fits and starts, fitfully, discontinuously, piecemeal

once or twice

A few times.
Example sentencesExamples
- He glanced at me once or twice during the drive to his house but I remained silent.
- I've only met him once or twice and he just told me to keep training hard and I'll reap the rewards.
- I had an opportunity to chat with him once or twice, and was immediately impressed by his fund of knowledge.
- I will try to post perhaps once or twice whilst I am away, using my Dad's computer.
- Give the potatoes a good stir once or twice during cooking to help them break up a bit.
- He blinked once or twice and the dark shape ran back and forth in front of his gaze.
- We spoke on the phone once or twice and the next thing I knew she landed on my doorstep.
- Then he visited me once or twice in Oxford, when he was off on one of his miserable summer holidays and was passing through.
- The fact that she might actually be in trouble crossed my mind once or twice but I shoved that away.
- He has a very relaxed style and I have only seen him lose his temper once or twice since I arrived.

once upon a time

1At some time in the past (used as a conventional opening of a story).
Example sentencesExamples
- The boy starts his story once upon a time, knowing that's how stories begin.
- Well, once upon a time, over a decade ago, I departed Istanbul possessed by the notion of reaching Moscow and riding the Trans-Siberian express all the way to China.
- Here goes: once upon a time, a couple years ago in an overblown naval base called San Diego you were giving a talk.
- As the conventional story goes, once upon a time the West slumbered in intellectual darkness.
- I remember once upon a time when I used to look good in clothes.
- So once upon a time, way back in the 80s, New Order released a song called ‘Bizzare Love Triangle’ and it was not very good.
- Something truly dreadful must have happened to these guys once upon a time because what else could explain their complete lack of any emotion on stage.
- Maybe, once upon a time, without language skills or the ability to negotiate and rationalise and reason, we had to resort to violence.
- Apparently once upon a time, one of my relatives was thrown into prison for holding up stagecoaches on the highways of Sussex - just one of the stories which have filtered their way down through the generations.
- Well once upon a time, which is when my story begins, there was a little boy who lived in that cottage and on a particular summer's afternoon he was standing out in the garden.
1. 1.1Formerly.
  once upon a time she would have been jealous, but no longer
  Example sentencesExamples
  So I will start by referring to a matter which, once upon a time (before I learnt wisdom), would have had me jumping up and down with fury.
  I have four (previously five, and once upon a time, nine) cats, so I have a little experience on this topic.
  Trivial Pursuits was one of my favorite blogs once upon a time, and even after it shut down, I couldn't bring myself to get rid of the link.
  And don't rewrite your own history to pretend that you didn't need the same help once upon a time.
  But nothing has ever happened and the quarry has remained quiet as a ghost town whereas, once upon a time, it employed some 100 men.
  I mean, they were a good band - I loved them once upon a time, and yes I had teenage girl dreams about Robert Plant.
  Yes, once upon a time, I could read music, thanks to my grandfather.
  For example, once upon a time, the Tax Department did not have ready access to your bank account information and unemployment benefits.
  And once upon a time, potential students could be forgiven for assuming that such a degree course was a worthwhile investment of time and money.
  Well, once upon a time, Americans would get their news by reading a newspaper or by watching television.
  Synonyms
  formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago

Origin

Middle English ones, genitive of one. The spelling change in the 16th century was in order to retain the unvoiced sound of the final consonant.

Rhymes

dunce

Definition of once in US English:

once

adverbwənswəns

1On one occasion or for one time only.
they deliver once a week
Example sentencesExamples
- I have already written about this once on my website and I can assure you I will be doing so again tomorrow.
- Limited tickets are still available for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
- But after hearing that he had breached the conditions once in the past the judge decided not to alter where he is to live.
- I've seen something like this once before but it's certainly not something you come across everyday.
- They have done this once - who can say that they will not try again?
- Instead of delivering twice a day, including in the morning, it now delivers once, at lunchtime.
- I've only seen it once in the past year at 2 in the morning and I remember watching it as a child.
- We must all have wardrobes wherein hang dresses three sizes too small and jackets worn once in the past decade.
- I had done this once before and managed it OK, but today I got tired about two thirds of the way round and had to walk.
- The study found the majority of consumers have bought products at least once in the past year because they were on promotion.
- Only once in the past 11 seasons have Everton finished in the top half of the upper echelons of the English game.
- Only once in the past seven years have the club ended a top-flight campaign among the first five.
- I'm only going to say this once: there are obviously more stirring things to read in the weeklies.
- More than once Walt has caught her talking to herself when in fact she was speaking to Fred.
- I was sure I'd done this once, and it appears to have not worked, so I've done it again.
- Anyone who'd seen the news even once in the past few years knew war would happen soon.
- The defeat means Sweden have still only once been past the second round stage since 1974.
- And really, I only have to do this once a year, so I am only losing one Sunday out of a possible 52.
- Lord Lansdowne said the estate has only covered its losses once in the past 13 years.
- Her daughter has only been to school only once in the past two weeks.
Synonyms
on one occasion, one time, one single time
1. 1.1usually with negative or "if" At all; on even one occasion (used for emphasis)
  he never once complained
  if she once got an idea in her head you'd never move it
  Example sentencesExamples
  By midday, Ashley was tired, hungry and her back was throbbing, but she never once complained.
  Not once has my doctor ever bothered to ask me about what I eat or if I exercise.
  He never once complained and was a favourite with every single member of the staff.
  Nona's response was to convince herself that Faith had never existed and did not once visit her in the asylum.
  They recognized that if they once conceded the moral principle, even in extreme cases, their legal position would become untenable.
  She knew how tired he must be after all that he'd endured, but he had not complained once.
  His attention to detail was second to none and not once did anyone complain about his ability to tell it as it was.
  Not once did he say anything about the things I was interested in.
  Not once did he complain about me blocking his view even though I kept moving to look up.
  Otherwise, the game is remarkably stable - didn't crash once on my machine.
  We were putting in a twelve hour day for absolutely zero pay, and we never once complained.
  Synonyms
  ever, at any time, on any occasion, at all, under any circumstances, on any account, in a million years
2At some time in the past; formerly.
He had once been an Army officer
Example sentencesExamples
- We strolled through a stone gateway, past high walls which once fully enclosed the complex.
- For this once booming town in the former Democratic Republic of Germany now has a more dubious claim to fame.
- Now 70, he is an inveterate inventor, the kind that Britain was once famous for.
- Post that was once delivered in just a day within the city now takes four to five days, old-timers note.
- Nowadays, this once controversial play is on the Irish school curriculum.
- They were once citizens of the same country as Russians, and they share the same past and historical fate.
- What were once artists' homes now contain offices, flats and the headquarters of the German Arts Council.
- No longer can they exert the authority on major occasions that was once their hallmark.
- It was a strange and eerie feeling riding through the near deserted streets of this once great city that I had read and seen so many films about.
- I walked past the once crowded video rack which now contained only two items.
- Labels tell the public how to cook the food - this was once part of the of the family butcher's role.
- The field was once part of a terrace of the Whitton Dene manor house and it seems that the trouble began when it was filled in with material to even it out.
- I visited the once famous Micklegate run last Friday night and had a pint in the Firkin public house.
- Think of someone who was once young and vital, now old, battered, semi-literate and living off the social.
- Last week, however, this once great company declared itself insolvent.
- The famous estate was once owned by the Viner family who sold it in 1966.
- City life has changed the face of this once quiet and residential area.
- Let us know some of the songs, clothes and memories from your past which you once cherished.
- Violent death and loss have taken the life of this once powerful businessman - twisted it, broken it and turned it inside out.
- Montreal once had a famous family of peregrines living on the Sun Life building.
Synonyms
formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago

conjunctionwənswəns

As soon as; when.
once the grapes were pressed, the juice was put into barrels
Example sentencesExamples
- Most of the projects proved that once students put on their thinking caps, nothing could stop them!
- But such a collection of dictators could become a tourist attraction once freedom comes to the country.
- I'll comment on this once I've had a chance to print it out on Monday.
- Thinner roots are planted horizontally in trays of compost and potted up individually once shoots have developed.
- I will comment further on this once I have had a chance to fully digest it myself.
- The Echo will publish information on the community petition once details are finalised.
- He says once people see better services start rolling out next year, they'll think the sale is a good thing.
- Adriano soon wasted a chance but once Ghana overcame early stage fright they began to dominate.
- The date of commencement will be confirmed once people have indicated an interest in taking part.
- Most went to the beach this afternoon once Joe had finished school.
- And who is there to offer support for the homeless once Christmas is over?
- I challenge anyone to dispute this once they have accurate knowledge and some experience of what most councillors do.
- In his experience employers in the Dublin area have had no problem with this once it was pointed out to them.
- The day started at a quarter past six and once the cows were milked, the milk would go to the dairy.
- But Eugenie says that once men have the know-how, they look wonderful dancing salsa.
- Sevenoaks Motor Club understood that once improvements had been finished it could resume racing in the park.
- But once drivers had cleared the roundabouts, they were able to make progress towards the coast.
- It's nice looking, well made furniture and will look fantastic once it's been delivered in a few weeks.
- Make no mistake, there are many who would love to see O'Leary fail and are waiting in the wings to pounce once things start to go wrong.
- But once people have children, few can ever be truly emotionally free again.
Synonyms
as soon as, when, after, immediately after, the instant, the minute, the moment, the second

Phrases

all at once

1Without warning; suddenly.
all at once the noise stopped
Example sentencesExamples
- The experienced safari guides seem to have an innate empathy with the nature all around, and all at once you feel at ease.
- Through it all, he is optimistic that he can succeed, not all at once, but over time.
- The problem with most smokers is that they try giving up all at once.
- We were in the process of writing a new song and I knew all at once that these words would fit it perfectly.
- The sounds struck her all at once, as if the volume on her ears had suddenly been turned up.
- When he finally did put her words together, it hit him all at once like a ton of bricks.
- Engineers preparing to replace the cables and computers discovered that the cables had degraded so much over the past 50 years that the work needed to be done all at once.
- But all at once, in the midst of his gay careless life came his tragedy; he fell in love with a hatter's wife.
Synonyms
suddenly, abruptly, immediately, instantaneously, instantly, in an instant, straight away, all of a sudden, at once, all at once, promptly, in a trice, swiftly
2All at the same time.
scared and excited all at once
Example sentencesExamples
- Daycare's about keeping everyone happy and busy and distracted all at once.
- Add the bean sprouts all at once and leave for 20 seconds, then add the spring onions, stir well, and drain.
- Cost-wise, it makes sense to collect several updates together and release them all at once.
- Now it doesn't take much arithmetic to work out that you can't give a hot meal to 17 people all at once.
- The dancers mix it up quite a bit, performing together all at once, as well as in trios, duos and solo pieces.
- Twenty-two years of diving and never a sniff of one of the leviathans of the sea, then suddenly dozens of whale sharks turn up all at once.
- I pointed to them and as she reached out to hand me a few, the picture of us suddenly made me want to laugh and cry all at once.
- Everything was suddenly catching up with me all at once, and I could barely separate one realisation from the other.
- She was nervous and excited and anxious and hundreds of other things all at once.
- Set up a group list with all your buds' e-mail addresses, and write to them all at once.
Synonyms
together, all together, as a group, in a body, as one, as a whole, in a mass, wholesale

at once

1Immediately.
I fell asleep at once
Example sentencesExamples
- Campaigners fighting to keep homes for the elderly open urged the Council to spend the pot of cash at once.
- Dust the soufflés with icing sugar and serve at once with the chocolate sauce and fresh berries.
- There would have been every reason for them to have made such facts public at once.
- He had seen his future wife Nancy when she was only 13 and decided at once that she was the only girl for him.
- The call goes to Birkenshaw who have files on all the area and can direct a fire crew to me at once.
- When using oil, the mixture should be combined as quickly as possible, then baked at once.
- Mr Lane urged any parents who have concerns about the disease to seek medical help at once.
- Anyone with concerns is asked to contact their nearest health centre at once.
- If it is broken it must be used at once, for it discolours and spoils quickly.
- In most companies, employees have got used to going back to work at once after lunch.
Synonyms
immediately, right away, right now, this instant, this minute, this moment, this second, now, straight away, instantly, instantaneously, directly, suddenly, abruptly, summarily, forthwith, promptly, without delay, without hesitation, without further ado
2Simultaneously.
computers that can do many things at once
Example sentencesExamples
- The months seem to be slipping by very quickly now, and I'm working on two issues at once at the moment.
- In the low light of the gallery the effect is at once beautiful and rather ominous.
- Everything is happening at once at the moment, in a manner that is proving really rather hard to deal with.
- Blogger has suddenly started emailing me comments again so they all arrived at once.
- There was a slow churning of his thought processes as two ideas came together at once.
- Most games that try to do a lot of things at once fall apart at the seams, so both of these are something special.
- He's trying to do his job but he can't be everywhere and see everything at once.
- Fast bowlers are a bit like buses, none for ages and then two come along at once.
- A few trains arrived at once and all of a sudden thousands swarmed the exit all pushing and miserable.
- A mean, penetrating rain, the type that comes at you from all directions at once.
Synonyms
at the same time, at one and the same time, at the same instant, at the same moment, together, all together, simultaneously

for once (or this once)

On this occasion only, as an exception.
He was glad that for once he had not listened
Example sentencesExamples
- The day stayed dry and the sun shone occasionally, and for once there were only a few spots of rain.
- But just this once, just for a few moments today I felt socially useful.
- Well, all right, write about it this once and I won't kick up the fuss.
- Not being a fan of fancy dress, I decided to let myself go just this once to fully appreciate the Rocky Horror experience.
- She was going to overcome her shy nature this once just for him, because he was worth it.
- They're calling it the deal of all deals, and for once you can forgive the hyperbole.
- The painter did not think it would be fun, just this once, to install a window.
- It should not form a precedent, but rather should be done as an emergency measure just this once.
- In the circumstances I am prepared to overlook the swearing - just this once.
- Just this once, ‘fun for all the family’ need not fill an adult audience with dread.

once a —, always a —

proverb A person cannot change their fundamental nature.
once a whiner, always a whiner
Example sentencesExamples
- I was strictly a drummer, and once a drummer, always a drummer - the way I play is very rhythmic, very percussive.
- As far as the Catholicism goes, there is a school of thought that says, ‘once a Catholic, always a Catholic’.
- Our position is, once a criminal, always a criminal and we will keep you in jail forever, and if we do let you out, we expect you back in three years anyway.

once again (or more)

One more time.
Example sentencesExamples
- We are hoping that once again you will help us out by selling some or all of the tickets.
- When we've done that place up to our liking, we'll sell it ready to move on once more.
- Now the company is involved in the scheme once again and plans are back on track.
- Recently he had had a lot of personal problems and once more turned to alcohol for comfort.
- The team is training at the club once more and is looking to recruit players for next season.
- They now live at an address they have asked us to keep secret for fear the yobs will catch up with them once more.
- I have returned refreshed from Blackpool and am in custody of my own laptop once more.
- No surprise then that the idea of a national identity card is once again being considered.
- Two weeks ago children were looking forward to being able to play outdoors once again.
- We were impressed but once more became hopelessly lost as we attempted to leave the city.
Synonyms
again, once more, once again, a second time, afresh, over again

once and for all (or once for all)

Now and for the last time; finally.
Example sentencesExamples
- It is time that the Government found a solution to this problem once and for all.
- THis time the vet gave him some drops to kill the fleas once and for all.
- It is better to strengthen your determination and stop smoking once for all rather than slowing it down.
- After all, surely this organisation could put the matter to rest once and for all.
- If there had ever been any doubters, they were silenced once and for all.
- This is one issue that residents and pedestrians would like to see completed once and for all.
- The aim should surely be to end these meetings once and for all, because all the goals have been reached.
- We first meet her in a rehab facility, vowing to kick the habit once and for all.
- I'd appreciate any information which serves to conclude this dispute once and for all.
- Several months earlier he had still been despairing over the work and no doubt wondering whether another seizure would leave him speechless once for all.
Synonyms
conclusively, decisively, finally, positively, absolutely, determinedly, definitely, definitively, irrevocably
for good, for always, forever, permanently, finally, in perpetuity

once and future

Denoting someone or something that is eternal, enduring, or constant.
Example sentencesExamples
- The once and future Hollywood legend would like to sell you a few things via set-top box on his expanding interactive platform.
- The latter similarly sprang from a private association that dates to 1975, when the Cold War often shaped cultural strategies in Germany's once and future capital.
- Your book deals with the once and future threat of smallpox.
- Ed Balls, the chancellor's once and future righthand man, gave every indication in the Commons that drastic action could be taken.
- It's not entirely clear whether he's speculating how our once and future republic might defend itself, or giving tips to the present state.
- When the numbers were announced for the second ballot, the once and future national chief had five more votes than he needed to bring the election to an end.
- To pretend otherwise, to present herself as the once and future champion of a sovereign Britain, was to utter a whopper of leviathan proportions.
- The government in Bonn packed its bags and relocated to the Reichstag, the once and future capitol edifice - meaning Berlin had to fit the bill as a nation's capital.
- I was driven to The Docks by my once and future boyfriend, Olivier, who works out at the gym roughly 17 times a week.
- Whether he likes it or not, Andy Reid is a once and future hero in Philadelphia, where his name initially generated jeers, not cheers.

once (or every once) in a while

From time to time; occasionally.
Example sentencesExamples
- Does she want her husband to say thank you once in a while, or help her out or just not go fishing at all?
- Every once in a while, it's a good idea to turn away from world events and take a look at the issues on one's doorstep.
- I dip into my comments section and reply every once in a while, mostly to show people that I read them.
- He introduced himself to me and asked if I'd like him to visit once in a while on his rounds.
- If, once in a while, we all take responsibility for our own doings maybe then we can all get on with a better life.
- Just once in a while, I stumble on a little piece of evidence that proves the world is as mad as I'm starting to think it is.
- Every once in a while, friends and friends-of-friends come to live with us.
- He'd come back to the house every once in a while, blind drunk, making everyone's life a misery.
- But they do have a cute blog which you should check out every once in a while.
- Every once in a while, a science fiction film comes along that really shakes things up.
Synonyms
occasionally, from time to time, now and again, now and then, every now and again, every now and then, every so often, every once in a while, on occasion, on occasions, on the odd occasion, at times, sometimes, off and on, at intervals, periodically, sporadically, spasmodically, erratically, irregularly, intermittently, by fits and starts, in fits and starts, fitfully, discontinuously, piecemeal

once or twice

A few times.
Example sentencesExamples
- I've only met him once or twice and he just told me to keep training hard and I'll reap the rewards.
- Give the potatoes a good stir once or twice during cooking to help them break up a bit.
- Then he visited me once or twice in Oxford, when he was off on one of his miserable summer holidays and was passing through.
- We spoke on the phone once or twice and the next thing I knew she landed on my doorstep.
- The fact that she might actually be in trouble crossed my mind once or twice but I shoved that away.
- I will try to post perhaps once or twice whilst I am away, using my Dad's computer.
- I had an opportunity to chat with him once or twice, and was immediately impressed by his fund of knowledge.
- He glanced at me once or twice during the drive to his house but I remained silent.
- He has a very relaxed style and I have only seen him lose his temper once or twice since I arrived.
- He blinked once or twice and the dark shape ran back and forth in front of his gaze.

once upon a time

1At some time in the past (used as a conventional opening of a story).
Example sentencesExamples
- Something truly dreadful must have happened to these guys once upon a time because what else could explain their complete lack of any emotion on stage.
- Here goes: once upon a time, a couple years ago in an overblown naval base called San Diego you were giving a talk.
- Apparently once upon a time, one of my relatives was thrown into prison for holding up stagecoaches on the highways of Sussex - just one of the stories which have filtered their way down through the generations.
- The boy starts his story once upon a time, knowing that's how stories begin.
- Well, once upon a time, over a decade ago, I departed Istanbul possessed by the notion of reaching Moscow and riding the Trans-Siberian express all the way to China.
- I remember once upon a time when I used to look good in clothes.
- Well once upon a time, which is when my story begins, there was a little boy who lived in that cottage and on a particular summer's afternoon he was standing out in the garden.
- So once upon a time, way back in the 80s, New Order released a song called ‘Bizzare Love Triangle’ and it was not very good.
- As the conventional story goes, once upon a time the West slumbered in intellectual darkness.
- Maybe, once upon a time, without language skills or the ability to negotiate and rationalise and reason, we had to resort to violence.
1. 1.1Formerly.
  once upon a time she would have been jealous, but no longer
  Example sentencesExamples
  I have four (previously five, and once upon a time, nine) cats, so I have a little experience on this topic.
  But nothing has ever happened and the quarry has remained quiet as a ghost town whereas, once upon a time, it employed some 100 men.
  And don't rewrite your own history to pretend that you didn't need the same help once upon a time.
  Yes, once upon a time, I could read music, thanks to my grandfather.
  So I will start by referring to a matter which, once upon a time (before I learnt wisdom), would have had me jumping up and down with fury.
  And once upon a time, potential students could be forgiven for assuming that such a degree course was a worthwhile investment of time and money.
  For example, once upon a time, the Tax Department did not have ready access to your bank account information and unemployment benefits.
  I mean, they were a good band - I loved them once upon a time, and yes I had teenage girl dreams about Robert Plant.
  Trivial Pursuits was one of my favorite blogs once upon a time, and even after it shut down, I couldn't bring myself to get rid of the link.
  Well, once upon a time, Americans would get their news by reading a newspaper or by watching television.
  Synonyms
  formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago

Origin

Middle English ones, genitive of one. The spelling change in the 16th century was in order to retain the unvoiced sound of the final consonant.

单词	once
释义	Definition of once in English: once adverb wʌnswəns 1On one occasion or for one time only. they deliver once a week informal he'd only met her the once Example sentencesExamples The defeat means Sweden have still only once been past the second round stage since 1974. But after hearing that he had breached the conditions once in the past the judge decided not to alter where he is to live. Only once in the past 11 seasons have Everton finished in the top half of the upper echelons of the English game. I have already written about this once on my website and I can assure you I will be doing so again tomorrow. They have done this once - who can say that they will not try again? I've seen something like this once before but it's certainly not something you come across everyday. Instead of delivering twice a day, including in the morning, it now delivers once, at lunchtime. I've only seen it once in the past year at 2 in the morning and I remember watching it as a child. The study found the majority of consumers have bought products at least once in the past year because they were on promotion. Her daughter has only been to school only once in the past two weeks. I was sure I'd done this once, and it appears to have not worked, so I've done it again. Limited tickets are still available for this once in a lifetime opportunity. I'm only going to say this once: there are obviously more stirring things to read in the weeklies. Only once in the past seven years have the club ended a top-flight campaign among the first five. Anyone who'd seen the news even once in the past few years knew war would happen soon. I had done this once before and managed it OK, but today I got tired about two thirds of the way round and had to walk. More than once Walt has caught her talking to herself when in fact she was speaking to Fred. And really, I only have to do this once a year, so I am only losing one Sunday out of a possible 52. We must all have wardrobes wherein hang dresses three sizes too small and jackets worn once in the past decade. Lord Lansdowne said the estate has only covered its losses once in the past 13 years. Synonyms on one occasion, one time, one single time 1.1usually with negative or "if" On even one occasion; at all (used for emphasis) he never once complained if she once got an idea in her head you'd never move it Example sentencesExamples Not once has my doctor ever bothered to ask me about what I eat or if I exercise. Not once did he say anything about the things I was interested in. His attention to detail was second to none and not once did anyone complain about his ability to tell it as it was. She knew how tired he must be after all that he'd endured, but he had not complained once. Otherwise, the game is remarkably stable - didn't crash once on my machine. By midday, Ashley was tired, hungry and her back was throbbing, but she never once complained. Not once did he complain about me blocking his view even though I kept moving to look up. We were putting in a twelve hour day for absolutely zero pay, and we never once complained. They recognized that if they once conceded the moral principle, even in extreme cases, their legal position would become untenable. Nona's response was to convince herself that Faith had never existed and did not once visit her in the asylum. He never once complained and was a favourite with every single member of the staff. Synonyms ever, at any time, on any occasion, at all, under any circumstances, on any account, in a million years 2At some time in the past; formerly. Gran had once been a famous singer Example sentencesExamples Let us know some of the songs, clothes and memories from your past which you once cherished. They were once citizens of the same country as Russians, and they share the same past and historical fate. Think of someone who was once young and vital, now old, battered, semi-literate and living off the social. Violent death and loss have taken the life of this once powerful businessman - twisted it, broken it and turned it inside out. Now 70, he is an inveterate inventor, the kind that Britain was once famous for. The field was once part of a terrace of the Whitton Dene manor house and it seems that the trouble began when it was filled in with material to even it out. We strolled through a stone gateway, past high walls which once fully enclosed the complex. Post that was once delivered in just a day within the city now takes four to five days, old-timers note. For this once booming town in the former Democratic Republic of Germany now has a more dubious claim to fame. I walked past the once crowded video rack which now contained only two items. I visited the once famous Micklegate run last Friday night and had a pint in the Firkin public house. Labels tell the public how to cook the food - this was once part of the of the family butcher's role. It was a strange and eerie feeling riding through the near deserted streets of this once great city that I had read and seen so many films about. What were once artists' homes now contain offices, flats and the headquarters of the German Arts Council. The famous estate was once owned by the Viner family who sold it in 1966. Montreal once had a famous family of peregrines living on the Sun Life building. Last week, however, this once great company declared itself insolvent. City life has changed the face of this once quiet and residential area. No longer can they exert the authority on major occasions that was once their hallmark. Nowadays, this once controversial play is on the Irish school curriculum. Synonyms formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago 3Multiplied by one. once two is two conjunction wʌnswəns As soon as; when. once the grapes were pressed, the juice was put into barrels Example sentencesExamples The day started at a quarter past six and once the cows were milked, the milk would go to the dairy. But such a collection of dictators could become a tourist attraction once freedom comes to the country. Most of the projects proved that once students put on their thinking caps, nothing could stop them! Sevenoaks Motor Club understood that once improvements had been finished it could resume racing in the park. Make no mistake, there are many who would love to see O'Leary fail and are waiting in the wings to pounce once things start to go wrong. And who is there to offer support for the homeless once Christmas is over? The Echo will publish information on the community petition once details are finalised. Thinner roots are planted horizontally in trays of compost and potted up individually once shoots have developed. But once people have children, few can ever be truly emotionally free again. In his experience employers in the Dublin area have had no problem with this once it was pointed out to them. I challenge anyone to dispute this once they have accurate knowledge and some experience of what most councillors do. But Eugenie says that once men have the know-how, they look wonderful dancing salsa. I will comment further on this once I have had a chance to fully digest it myself. The date of commencement will be confirmed once people have indicated an interest in taking part. I'll comment on this once I've had a chance to print it out on Monday. It's nice looking, well made furniture and will look fantastic once it's been delivered in a few weeks. Adriano soon wasted a chance but once Ghana overcame early stage fright they began to dominate. Most went to the beach this afternoon once Joe had finished school. But once drivers had cleared the roundabouts, they were able to make progress towards the coast. He says once people see better services start rolling out next year, they'll think the sale is a good thing. Synonyms as soon as, when, after, immediately after, the instant/moment/second/minute British informal immediately Phrases all at once 1Suddenly. all at once the noise stopped Example sentencesExamples We were in the process of writing a new song and I knew all at once that these words would fit it perfectly. But all at once, in the midst of his gay careless life came his tragedy; he fell in love with a hatter's wife. Through it all, he is optimistic that he can succeed, not all at once, but over time. Engineers preparing to replace the cables and computers discovered that the cables had degraded so much over the past 50 years that the work needed to be done all at once. The sounds struck her all at once, as if the volume on her ears had suddenly been turned up. The problem with most smokers is that they try giving up all at once. The experienced safari guides seem to have an innate empathy with the nature all around, and all at once you feel at ease. When he finally did put her words together, it hit him all at once like a ton of bricks. Synonyms suddenly, abruptly, immediately, instantaneously, instantly, in an instant, straight away, all of a sudden, at once, all at once, promptly, in a trice, swiftly 2All at the same time. a lot of beans are ready all at once Example sentencesExamples I pointed to them and as she reached out to hand me a few, the picture of us suddenly made me want to laugh and cry all at once. Everything was suddenly catching up with me all at once, and I could barely separate one realisation from the other. Add the bean sprouts all at once and leave for 20 seconds, then add the spring onions, stir well, and drain. Daycare's about keeping everyone happy and busy and distracted all at once. She was nervous and excited and anxious and hundreds of other things all at once. Cost-wise, it makes sense to collect several updates together and release them all at once. Now it doesn't take much arithmetic to work out that you can't give a hot meal to 17 people all at once. Set up a group list with all your buds' e-mail addresses, and write to them all at once. The dancers mix it up quite a bit, performing together all at once, as well as in trios, duos and solo pieces. Twenty-two years of diving and never a sniff of one of the leviathans of the sea, then suddenly dozens of whale sharks turn up all at once. Synonyms together, all together, as a group, in a body, as one, as a whole, in a mass, wholesale at once 1Immediately. I fell asleep at once Example sentencesExamples Dust the soufflés with icing sugar and serve at once with the chocolate sauce and fresh berries. The call goes to Birkenshaw who have files on all the area and can direct a fire crew to me at once. Mr Lane urged any parents who have concerns about the disease to seek medical help at once. In most companies, employees have got used to going back to work at once after lunch. Campaigners fighting to keep homes for the elderly open urged the Council to spend the pot of cash at once. Anyone with concerns is asked to contact their nearest health centre at once. When using oil, the mixture should be combined as quickly as possible, then baked at once. He had seen his future wife Nancy when she was only 13 and decided at once that she was the only girl for him. If it is broken it must be used at once, for it discolours and spoils quickly. There would have been every reason for them to have made such facts public at once. Synonyms immediately, right away, right now, this instant, this minute, this moment, this second, now, straight away, instantly, instantaneously, directly, suddenly, abruptly, summarily, forthwith, promptly, without delay, without hesitation, without further ado 2At the same time; simultaneously. computers that can do many things at once Example sentencesExamples A few trains arrived at once and all of a sudden thousands swarmed the exit all pushing and miserable. Fast bowlers are a bit like buses, none for ages and then two come along at once. Everything is happening at once at the moment, in a manner that is proving really rather hard to deal with. There was a slow churning of his thought processes as two ideas came together at once. In the low light of the gallery the effect is at once beautiful and rather ominous. Blogger has suddenly started emailing me comments again so they all arrived at once. Most games that try to do a lot of things at once fall apart at the seams, so both of these are something special. He's trying to do his job but he can't be everywhere and see everything at once. A mean, penetrating rain, the type that comes at you from all directions at once. The months seem to be slipping by very quickly now, and I'm working on two issues at once at the moment. Synonyms at the same time, at one and the same time, at the same instant, at the same moment, together, all together, simultaneously for once (or this once) On this occasion only, as an exception. I hope you'll forgive me this once Example sentencesExamples In the circumstances I am prepared to overlook the swearing - just this once. Just this once, ‘fun for all the family’ need not fill an adult audience with dread. But just this once, just for a few moments today I felt socially useful. The day stayed dry and the sun shone occasionally, and for once there were only a few spots of rain. It should not form a precedent, but rather should be done as an emergency measure just this once. The painter did not think it would be fun, just this once, to install a window. She was going to overcome her shy nature this once just for him, because he was worth it. Well, all right, write about it this once and I won't kick up the fuss. They're calling it the deal of all deals, and for once you can forgive the hyperbole. Not being a fan of fancy dress, I decided to let myself go just this once to fully appreciate the Rocky Horror experience. once a —, always a — proverb A person cannot change their fundamental nature. once a whinger, always a whinger Example sentencesExamples As far as the Catholicism goes, there is a school of thought that says, ‘once a Catholic, always a Catholic’. Our position is, once a criminal, always a criminal and we will keep you in jail forever, and if we do let you out, we expect you back in three years anyway. I was strictly a drummer, and once a drummer, always a drummer - the way I play is very rhythmic, very percussive. once again (or more) One more time. Example sentencesExamples They now live at an address they have asked us to keep secret for fear the yobs will catch up with them once more. Now the company is involved in the scheme once again and plans are back on track. I have returned refreshed from Blackpool and am in custody of my own laptop once more. The team is training at the club once more and is looking to recruit players for next season. Recently he had had a lot of personal problems and once more turned to alcohol for comfort. No surprise then that the idea of a national identity card is once again being considered. When we've done that place up to our liking, we'll sell it ready to move on once more. We were impressed but once more became hopelessly lost as we attempted to leave the city. Two weeks ago children were looking forward to being able to play outdoors once again. We are hoping that once again you will help us out by selling some or all of the tickets. Synonyms again, once more, once again, a second time, afresh, over again once and for all (or once for all) Now and for the last time; finally. Example sentencesExamples Several months earlier he had still been despairing over the work and no doubt wondering whether another seizure would leave him speechless once for all. I'd appreciate any information which serves to conclude this dispute once and for all. This is one issue that residents and pedestrians would like to see completed once and for all. We first meet her in a rehab facility, vowing to kick the habit once and for all. After all, surely this organisation could put the matter to rest once and for all. If there had ever been any doubters, they were silenced once and for all. It is better to strengthen your determination and stop smoking once for all rather than slowing it down. It is time that the Government found a solution to this problem once and for all. THis time the vet gave him some drops to kill the fleas once and for all. The aim should surely be to end these meetings once and for all, because all the goals have been reached. Synonyms conclusively, decisively, finally, positively, absolutely, determinedly, definitely, definitively, irrevocably for good, for always, forever, permanently, finally, in perpetuity once and future Denoting someone or something that is eternal or enduring. side two contains four once and future hit singles Example sentencesExamples Ed Balls, the chancellor's once and future righthand man, gave every indication in the Commons that drastic action could be taken. To pretend otherwise, to present herself as the once and future champion of a sovereign Britain, was to utter a whopper of leviathan proportions. I was driven to The Docks by my once and future boyfriend, Olivier, who works out at the gym roughly 17 times a week. Whether he likes it or not, Andy Reid is a once and future hero in Philadelphia, where his name initially generated jeers, not cheers. Your book deals with the once and future threat of smallpox. The government in Bonn packed its bags and relocated to the Reichstag, the once and future capitol edifice - meaning Berlin had to fit the bill as a nation's capital. The latter similarly sprang from a private association that dates to 1975, when the Cold War often shaped cultural strategies in Germany's once and future capital. It's not entirely clear whether he's speculating how our once and future republic might defend itself, or giving tips to the present state. The once and future Hollywood legend would like to sell you a few things via set-top box on his expanding interactive platform. When the numbers were announced for the second ballot, the once and future national chief had five more votes than he needed to bring the election to an end. once (or every once) in a while From time to time; occasionally. Example sentencesExamples I dip into my comments section and reply every once in a while, mostly to show people that I read them. Every once in a while, it's a good idea to turn away from world events and take a look at the issues on one's doorstep. He introduced himself to me and asked if I'd like him to visit once in a while on his rounds. Every once in a while, friends and friends-of-friends come to live with us. If, once in a while, we all take responsibility for our own doings maybe then we can all get on with a better life. Does she want her husband to say thank you once in a while, or help her out or just not go fishing at all? But they do have a cute blog which you should check out every once in a while. Just once in a while, I stumble on a little piece of evidence that proves the world is as mad as I'm starting to think it is. He'd come back to the house every once in a while, blind drunk, making everyone's life a misery. Every once in a while, a science fiction film comes along that really shakes things up. Synonyms occasionally, from time to time, now and again, now and then, every now and again, every now and then, every so often, every once in a while, on occasion, on occasions, on the odd occasion, at times, sometimes, off and on, at intervals, periodically, sporadically, spasmodically, erratically, irregularly, intermittently, by fits and starts, in fits and starts, fitfully, discontinuously, piecemeal once or twice A few times. Example sentencesExamples He glanced at me once or twice during the drive to his house but I remained silent. I've only met him once or twice and he just told me to keep training hard and I'll reap the rewards. I had an opportunity to chat with him once or twice, and was immediately impressed by his fund of knowledge. I will try to post perhaps once or twice whilst I am away, using my Dad's computer. Give the potatoes a good stir once or twice during cooking to help them break up a bit. He blinked once or twice and the dark shape ran back and forth in front of his gaze. We spoke on the phone once or twice and the next thing I knew she landed on my doorstep. Then he visited me once or twice in Oxford, when he was off on one of his miserable summer holidays and was passing through. The fact that she might actually be in trouble crossed my mind once or twice but I shoved that away. He has a very relaxed style and I have only seen him lose his temper once or twice since I arrived. once upon a time 1At some time in the past (used as a conventional opening of a story). Example sentencesExamples The boy starts his story once upon a time, knowing that's how stories begin. Well, once upon a time, over a decade ago, I departed Istanbul possessed by the notion of reaching Moscow and riding the Trans-Siberian express all the way to China. Here goes: once upon a time, a couple years ago in an overblown naval base called San Diego you were giving a talk. As the conventional story goes, once upon a time the West slumbered in intellectual darkness. I remember once upon a time when I used to look good in clothes. So once upon a time, way back in the 80s, New Order released a song called ‘Bizzare Love Triangle’ and it was not very good. Something truly dreadful must have happened to these guys once upon a time because what else could explain their complete lack of any emotion on stage. Maybe, once upon a time, without language skills or the ability to negotiate and rationalise and reason, we had to resort to violence. Apparently once upon a time, one of my relatives was thrown into prison for holding up stagecoaches on the highways of Sussex - just one of the stories which have filtered their way down through the generations. Well once upon a time, which is when my story begins, there was a little boy who lived in that cottage and on a particular summer's afternoon he was standing out in the garden. 1.1Formerly. once upon a time she would have been jealous, but no longer Example sentencesExamples So I will start by referring to a matter which, once upon a time (before I learnt wisdom), would have had me jumping up and down with fury. I have four (previously five, and once upon a time, nine) cats, so I have a little experience on this topic. Trivial Pursuits was one of my favorite blogs once upon a time, and even after it shut down, I couldn't bring myself to get rid of the link. And don't rewrite your own history to pretend that you didn't need the same help once upon a time. But nothing has ever happened and the quarry has remained quiet as a ghost town whereas, once upon a time, it employed some 100 men. I mean, they were a good band - I loved them once upon a time, and yes I had teenage girl dreams about Robert Plant. Yes, once upon a time, I could read music, thanks to my grandfather. For example, once upon a time, the Tax Department did not have ready access to your bank account information and unemployment benefits. And once upon a time, potential students could be forgiven for assuming that such a degree course was a worthwhile investment of time and money. Well, once upon a time, Americans would get their news by reading a newspaper or by watching television. Synonyms formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago Origin Middle English ones, genitive of one. The spelling change in the 16th century was in order to retain the unvoiced sound of the final consonant. Rhymes dunce adv..1 phr. Definition of once in US English: once adverbwənswəns 1On one occasion or for one time only. they deliver once a week Example sentencesExamples I have already written about this once on my website and I can assure you I will be doing so again tomorrow. Limited tickets are still available for this once in a lifetime opportunity. But after hearing that he had breached the conditions once in the past the judge decided not to alter where he is to live. I've seen something like this once before but it's certainly not something you come across everyday. They have done this once - who can say that they will not try again? Instead of delivering twice a day, including in the morning, it now delivers once, at lunchtime. I've only seen it once in the past year at 2 in the morning and I remember watching it as a child. We must all have wardrobes wherein hang dresses three sizes too small and jackets worn once in the past decade. I had done this once before and managed it OK, but today I got tired about two thirds of the way round and had to walk. The study found the majority of consumers have bought products at least once in the past year because they were on promotion. Only once in the past 11 seasons have Everton finished in the top half of the upper echelons of the English game. Only once in the past seven years have the club ended a top-flight campaign among the first five. I'm only going to say this once: there are obviously more stirring things to read in the weeklies. More than once Walt has caught her talking to herself when in fact she was speaking to Fred. I was sure I'd done this once, and it appears to have not worked, so I've done it again. Anyone who'd seen the news even once in the past few years knew war would happen soon. The defeat means Sweden have still only once been past the second round stage since 1974. And really, I only have to do this once a year, so I am only losing one Sunday out of a possible 52. Lord Lansdowne said the estate has only covered its losses once in the past 13 years. Her daughter has only been to school only once in the past two weeks. Synonyms on one occasion, one time, one single time 1.1usually with negative or "if" At all; on even one occasion (used for emphasis) he never once complained if she once got an idea in her head you'd never move it Example sentencesExamples By midday, Ashley was tired, hungry and her back was throbbing, but she never once complained. Not once has my doctor ever bothered to ask me about what I eat or if I exercise. He never once complained and was a favourite with every single member of the staff. Nona's response was to convince herself that Faith had never existed and did not once visit her in the asylum. They recognized that if they once conceded the moral principle, even in extreme cases, their legal position would become untenable. She knew how tired he must be after all that he'd endured, but he had not complained once. His attention to detail was second to none and not once did anyone complain about his ability to tell it as it was. Not once did he say anything about the things I was interested in. Not once did he complain about me blocking his view even though I kept moving to look up. Otherwise, the game is remarkably stable - didn't crash once on my machine. We were putting in a twelve hour day for absolutely zero pay, and we never once complained. Synonyms ever, at any time, on any occasion, at all, under any circumstances, on any account, in a million years 2At some time in the past; formerly. He had once been an Army officer Example sentencesExamples We strolled through a stone gateway, past high walls which once fully enclosed the complex. For this once booming town in the former Democratic Republic of Germany now has a more dubious claim to fame. Now 70, he is an inveterate inventor, the kind that Britain was once famous for. Post that was once delivered in just a day within the city now takes four to five days, old-timers note. Nowadays, this once controversial play is on the Irish school curriculum. They were once citizens of the same country as Russians, and they share the same past and historical fate. What were once artists' homes now contain offices, flats and the headquarters of the German Arts Council. No longer can they exert the authority on major occasions that was once their hallmark. It was a strange and eerie feeling riding through the near deserted streets of this once great city that I had read and seen so many films about. I walked past the once crowded video rack which now contained only two items. Labels tell the public how to cook the food - this was once part of the of the family butcher's role. The field was once part of a terrace of the Whitton Dene manor house and it seems that the trouble began when it was filled in with material to even it out. I visited the once famous Micklegate run last Friday night and had a pint in the Firkin public house. Think of someone who was once young and vital, now old, battered, semi-literate and living off the social. Last week, however, this once great company declared itself insolvent. The famous estate was once owned by the Viner family who sold it in 1966. City life has changed the face of this once quiet and residential area. Let us know some of the songs, clothes and memories from your past which you once cherished. Violent death and loss have taken the life of this once powerful businessman - twisted it, broken it and turned it inside out. Montreal once had a famous family of peregrines living on the Sun Life building. Synonyms formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago conjunctionwənswəns As soon as; when. once the grapes were pressed, the juice was put into barrels Example sentencesExamples Most of the projects proved that once students put on their thinking caps, nothing could stop them! But such a collection of dictators could become a tourist attraction once freedom comes to the country. I'll comment on this once I've had a chance to print it out on Monday. Thinner roots are planted horizontally in trays of compost and potted up individually once shoots have developed. I will comment further on this once I have had a chance to fully digest it myself. The Echo will publish information on the community petition once details are finalised. He says once people see better services start rolling out next year, they'll think the sale is a good thing. Adriano soon wasted a chance but once Ghana overcame early stage fright they began to dominate. The date of commencement will be confirmed once people have indicated an interest in taking part. Most went to the beach this afternoon once Joe had finished school. And who is there to offer support for the homeless once Christmas is over? I challenge anyone to dispute this once they have accurate knowledge and some experience of what most councillors do. In his experience employers in the Dublin area have had no problem with this once it was pointed out to them. The day started at a quarter past six and once the cows were milked, the milk would go to the dairy. But Eugenie says that once men have the know-how, they look wonderful dancing salsa. Sevenoaks Motor Club understood that once improvements had been finished it could resume racing in the park. But once drivers had cleared the roundabouts, they were able to make progress towards the coast. It's nice looking, well made furniture and will look fantastic once it's been delivered in a few weeks. Make no mistake, there are many who would love to see O'Leary fail and are waiting in the wings to pounce once things start to go wrong. But once people have children, few can ever be truly emotionally free again. Synonyms as soon as, when, after, immediately after, the instant, the minute, the moment, the second Phrases all at once 1Without warning; suddenly. all at once the noise stopped Example sentencesExamples The experienced safari guides seem to have an innate empathy with the nature all around, and all at once you feel at ease. Through it all, he is optimistic that he can succeed, not all at once, but over time. The problem with most smokers is that they try giving up all at once. We were in the process of writing a new song and I knew all at once that these words would fit it perfectly. The sounds struck her all at once, as if the volume on her ears had suddenly been turned up. When he finally did put her words together, it hit him all at once like a ton of bricks. Engineers preparing to replace the cables and computers discovered that the cables had degraded so much over the past 50 years that the work needed to be done all at once. But all at once, in the midst of his gay careless life came his tragedy; he fell in love with a hatter's wife. Synonyms suddenly, abruptly, immediately, instantaneously, instantly, in an instant, straight away, all of a sudden, at once, all at once, promptly, in a trice, swiftly 2All at the same time. scared and excited all at once Example sentencesExamples Daycare's about keeping everyone happy and busy and distracted all at once. Add the bean sprouts all at once and leave for 20 seconds, then add the spring onions, stir well, and drain. Cost-wise, it makes sense to collect several updates together and release them all at once. Now it doesn't take much arithmetic to work out that you can't give a hot meal to 17 people all at once. The dancers mix it up quite a bit, performing together all at once, as well as in trios, duos and solo pieces. Twenty-two years of diving and never a sniff of one of the leviathans of the sea, then suddenly dozens of whale sharks turn up all at once. I pointed to them and as she reached out to hand me a few, the picture of us suddenly made me want to laugh and cry all at once. Everything was suddenly catching up with me all at once, and I could barely separate one realisation from the other. She was nervous and excited and anxious and hundreds of other things all at once. Set up a group list with all your buds' e-mail addresses, and write to them all at once. Synonyms together, all together, as a group, in a body, as one, as a whole, in a mass, wholesale at once 1Immediately. I fell asleep at once Example sentencesExamples Campaigners fighting to keep homes for the elderly open urged the Council to spend the pot of cash at once. Dust the soufflés with icing sugar and serve at once with the chocolate sauce and fresh berries. There would have been every reason for them to have made such facts public at once. He had seen his future wife Nancy when she was only 13 and decided at once that she was the only girl for him. The call goes to Birkenshaw who have files on all the area and can direct a fire crew to me at once. When using oil, the mixture should be combined as quickly as possible, then baked at once. Mr Lane urged any parents who have concerns about the disease to seek medical help at once. Anyone with concerns is asked to contact their nearest health centre at once. If it is broken it must be used at once, for it discolours and spoils quickly. In most companies, employees have got used to going back to work at once after lunch. Synonyms immediately, right away, right now, this instant, this minute, this moment, this second, now, straight away, instantly, instantaneously, directly, suddenly, abruptly, summarily, forthwith, promptly, without delay, without hesitation, without further ado 2Simultaneously. computers that can do many things at once Example sentencesExamples The months seem to be slipping by very quickly now, and I'm working on two issues at once at the moment. In the low light of the gallery the effect is at once beautiful and rather ominous. Everything is happening at once at the moment, in a manner that is proving really rather hard to deal with. Blogger has suddenly started emailing me comments again so they all arrived at once. There was a slow churning of his thought processes as two ideas came together at once. Most games that try to do a lot of things at once fall apart at the seams, so both of these are something special. He's trying to do his job but he can't be everywhere and see everything at once. Fast bowlers are a bit like buses, none for ages and then two come along at once. A few trains arrived at once and all of a sudden thousands swarmed the exit all pushing and miserable. A mean, penetrating rain, the type that comes at you from all directions at once. Synonyms at the same time, at one and the same time, at the same instant, at the same moment, together, all together, simultaneously for once (or this once) On this occasion only, as an exception. He was glad that for once he had not listened Example sentencesExamples The day stayed dry and the sun shone occasionally, and for once there were only a few spots of rain. But just this once, just for a few moments today I felt socially useful. Well, all right, write about it this once and I won't kick up the fuss. Not being a fan of fancy dress, I decided to let myself go just this once to fully appreciate the Rocky Horror experience. She was going to overcome her shy nature this once just for him, because he was worth it. They're calling it the deal of all deals, and for once you can forgive the hyperbole. The painter did not think it would be fun, just this once, to install a window. It should not form a precedent, but rather should be done as an emergency measure just this once. In the circumstances I am prepared to overlook the swearing - just this once. Just this once, ‘fun for all the family’ need not fill an adult audience with dread. once a —, always a — proverb A person cannot change their fundamental nature. once a whiner, always a whiner Example sentencesExamples I was strictly a drummer, and once a drummer, always a drummer - the way I play is very rhythmic, very percussive. As far as the Catholicism goes, there is a school of thought that says, ‘once a Catholic, always a Catholic’. Our position is, once a criminal, always a criminal and we will keep you in jail forever, and if we do let you out, we expect you back in three years anyway. once again (or more) One more time. Example sentencesExamples We are hoping that once again you will help us out by selling some or all of the tickets. When we've done that place up to our liking, we'll sell it ready to move on once more. Now the company is involved in the scheme once again and plans are back on track. Recently he had had a lot of personal problems and once more turned to alcohol for comfort. The team is training at the club once more and is looking to recruit players for next season. They now live at an address they have asked us to keep secret for fear the yobs will catch up with them once more. I have returned refreshed from Blackpool and am in custody of my own laptop once more. No surprise then that the idea of a national identity card is once again being considered. Two weeks ago children were looking forward to being able to play outdoors once again. We were impressed but once more became hopelessly lost as we attempted to leave the city. Synonyms again, once more, once again, a second time, afresh, over again once and for all (or once for all) Now and for the last time; finally. Example sentencesExamples It is time that the Government found a solution to this problem once and for all. THis time the vet gave him some drops to kill the fleas once and for all. It is better to strengthen your determination and stop smoking once for all rather than slowing it down. After all, surely this organisation could put the matter to rest once and for all. If there had ever been any doubters, they were silenced once and for all. This is one issue that residents and pedestrians would like to see completed once and for all. The aim should surely be to end these meetings once and for all, because all the goals have been reached. We first meet her in a rehab facility, vowing to kick the habit once and for all. I'd appreciate any information which serves to conclude this dispute once and for all. Several months earlier he had still been despairing over the work and no doubt wondering whether another seizure would leave him speechless once for all. Synonyms conclusively, decisively, finally, positively, absolutely, determinedly, definitely, definitively, irrevocably for good, for always, forever, permanently, finally, in perpetuity once and future Denoting someone or something that is eternal, enduring, or constant. Example sentencesExamples The once and future Hollywood legend would like to sell you a few things via set-top box on his expanding interactive platform. The latter similarly sprang from a private association that dates to 1975, when the Cold War often shaped cultural strategies in Germany's once and future capital. Your book deals with the once and future threat of smallpox. Ed Balls, the chancellor's once and future righthand man, gave every indication in the Commons that drastic action could be taken. It's not entirely clear whether he's speculating how our once and future republic might defend itself, or giving tips to the present state. When the numbers were announced for the second ballot, the once and future national chief had five more votes than he needed to bring the election to an end. To pretend otherwise, to present herself as the once and future champion of a sovereign Britain, was to utter a whopper of leviathan proportions. The government in Bonn packed its bags and relocated to the Reichstag, the once and future capitol edifice - meaning Berlin had to fit the bill as a nation's capital. I was driven to The Docks by my once and future boyfriend, Olivier, who works out at the gym roughly 17 times a week. Whether he likes it or not, Andy Reid is a once and future hero in Philadelphia, where his name initially generated jeers, not cheers. once (or every once) in a while From time to time; occasionally. Example sentencesExamples Does she want her husband to say thank you once in a while, or help her out or just not go fishing at all? Every once in a while, it's a good idea to turn away from world events and take a look at the issues on one's doorstep. I dip into my comments section and reply every once in a while, mostly to show people that I read them. He introduced himself to me and asked if I'd like him to visit once in a while on his rounds. If, once in a while, we all take responsibility for our own doings maybe then we can all get on with a better life. Just once in a while, I stumble on a little piece of evidence that proves the world is as mad as I'm starting to think it is. Every once in a while, friends and friends-of-friends come to live with us. He'd come back to the house every once in a while, blind drunk, making everyone's life a misery. But they do have a cute blog which you should check out every once in a while. Every once in a while, a science fiction film comes along that really shakes things up. Synonyms occasionally, from time to time, now and again, now and then, every now and again, every now and then, every so often, every once in a while, on occasion, on occasions, on the odd occasion, at times, sometimes, off and on, at intervals, periodically, sporadically, spasmodically, erratically, irregularly, intermittently, by fits and starts, in fits and starts, fitfully, discontinuously, piecemeal once or twice A few times. Example sentencesExamples I've only met him once or twice and he just told me to keep training hard and I'll reap the rewards. Give the potatoes a good stir once or twice during cooking to help them break up a bit. Then he visited me once or twice in Oxford, when he was off on one of his miserable summer holidays and was passing through. We spoke on the phone once or twice and the next thing I knew she landed on my doorstep. The fact that she might actually be in trouble crossed my mind once or twice but I shoved that away. I will try to post perhaps once or twice whilst I am away, using my Dad's computer. I had an opportunity to chat with him once or twice, and was immediately impressed by his fund of knowledge. He glanced at me once or twice during the drive to his house but I remained silent. He has a very relaxed style and I have only seen him lose his temper once or twice since I arrived. He blinked once or twice and the dark shape ran back and forth in front of his gaze. once upon a time 1At some time in the past (used as a conventional opening of a story). Example sentencesExamples Something truly dreadful must have happened to these guys once upon a time because what else could explain their complete lack of any emotion on stage. Here goes: once upon a time, a couple years ago in an overblown naval base called San Diego you were giving a talk. Apparently once upon a time, one of my relatives was thrown into prison for holding up stagecoaches on the highways of Sussex - just one of the stories which have filtered their way down through the generations. The boy starts his story once upon a time, knowing that's how stories begin. Well, once upon a time, over a decade ago, I departed Istanbul possessed by the notion of reaching Moscow and riding the Trans-Siberian express all the way to China. I remember once upon a time when I used to look good in clothes. Well once upon a time, which is when my story begins, there was a little boy who lived in that cottage and on a particular summer's afternoon he was standing out in the garden. So once upon a time, way back in the 80s, New Order released a song called ‘Bizzare Love Triangle’ and it was not very good. As the conventional story goes, once upon a time the West slumbered in intellectual darkness. Maybe, once upon a time, without language skills or the ability to negotiate and rationalise and reason, we had to resort to violence. 1.1Formerly. once upon a time she would have been jealous, but no longer Example sentencesExamples I have four (previously five, and once upon a time, nine) cats, so I have a little experience on this topic. But nothing has ever happened and the quarry has remained quiet as a ghost town whereas, once upon a time, it employed some 100 men. And don't rewrite your own history to pretend that you didn't need the same help once upon a time. Yes, once upon a time, I could read music, thanks to my grandfather. So I will start by referring to a matter which, once upon a time (before I learnt wisdom), would have had me jumping up and down with fury. And once upon a time, potential students could be forgiven for assuming that such a degree course was a worthwhile investment of time and money. For example, once upon a time, the Tax Department did not have ready access to your bank account information and unemployment benefits. I mean, they were a good band - I loved them once upon a time, and yes I had teenage girl dreams about Robert Plant. Trivial Pursuits was one of my favorite blogs once upon a time, and even after it shut down, I couldn't bring myself to get rid of the link. Well, once upon a time, Americans would get their news by reading a newspaper or by watching television. Synonyms formerly, previously, in the past, at one time, at one point, once upon a time, on a former occasion, on one occasion, one time, in one case, time was when, in days gone by, in times gone by, back in the day, in times past, in the old days, in the good old days, long ago Origin Middle English ones, genitive of one. The spelling change in the 16th century was in order to retain the unvoiced sound of the final consonant. adv..1 phr.
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