Once

Definition

The word once is an adverb, conjunction, and noun. As an adverb, it means one time or on one occasion. As a conjunction, it indicates that something happens as soon as a particular condition is met. As a noun, it refers to a single occurrence.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Conjunction
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wʌns/
• Respelling: WUNS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wʌns/
• Respelling: WUNS

Etymology

The word "once" originates from the Middle English "ones," meaning "one time" or "at one time," derived from Old English "anes," which is the genitive of "ān," meaning "one."

Derivatives

• Once-over (noun, informal)
• Once-in-a-lifetime (adjective)
• Once-only (adjective)
• Once-loved (adjective)
• Once-for-all (phrase)

Synonyms

• One time
• Formerly
• Previously

Antonyms

• Twice
• Never
• Always

Usage

The term "once" is frequently used in a variety of contexts, including time references and conditional statements. For example, "He visited Paris once" or "Call me once you get home."

Related Terms

• Twice: Two times or on two occasions.
• One-time: Occurring on only one occasion.
• Previously: Happening before the present time.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• One time or on one occasion: Refers to a single instance of an event.
  • Example: "I have only been there once."
• At some time in the past: Indicates a previous time or condition.
  • Example: "He was once a famous actor."

Conjunction

• As soon as or when: Refers to something happening after a condition is met.
  • Example: "Once the rain stops, we can go outside."

Noun

• A single occurrence: Refers to an event happening one time.
  • Example: "Just this once, I’ll let it slide."