Singular is a tricky word to spell because it contains several unique sounds. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈsɪŋɡjʊlə/. The "s" is pronounced like "ss," the "i" sounds like "ih," the "ng" is a combination of "n" and "g" sounds, the "g" itself is pronounced like a "j" sound, the "u" sounds like "uh," the "l" sounds like "l," and the final "a" sounds like "uh." Putting these sounds together creates the word singular.
Singular is an adjective that has multiple meanings and can be used to describe different aspects of something.
Firstly, it can refer to something that is unique, exceptional, or extraordinary, distinguishing it from the ordinary or common. For example, "She had a singular talent for painting," indicating that her skill was exceptional and unmatched.
Secondly, singular can also mean being individual or separate, implying that something or someone stands alone or is distinct from others. This can be seen in phrases like "A singular event," emphasizing that the event is isolated and alone, not part of a series or pattern.
Moreover, singular can describe a grammatical form that is used when referring to only one person, thing, or entity, as opposed to the plural form. In language, it is the term applied to refer to the grammatical category that expresses uniqueness or singularity, such as "a singular noun" indicating that the noun is referring to a single entity or object.
Furthermore, it can imply being eccentric or peculiar, emphasizing that someone or something is remarkably different or unusual from what is customary or expected. For instance, "His singular fashion sense made him stand out in the crowd."
Overall, the term "singular" encompasses qualities of uniqueness, individuality, exceptionality, grammar in relation to singularity, and eccentricity, each carrying its own distinct connotations.
Not complex or compound; expressing only one person or thing; not plural; proper or individual, as a singular term; remarkable; unexampled; rare; unique; uncommon; peculiar; odd; strange.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "singular" has its origin in the Latin word "singularis", which means "single" or "alone". It is derived from the Latin word "singulus", which has the same meaning. The Latin word "singulus" is believed to have been derived from the root word "sem-" or "sim-" meaning "one". Over time, the word "singular" has come to indicate something unique, exceptional, or distinct from a group or set.