one at a time

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   Individually in order, not all together at the same moment.

   Grammar: Used like an adverb; it does not change form.

   Patterns

   • do something one at a time
   • take something one at a time

   Please come in one at a time so I can check your tickets.

   The teacher called the students one at a time to read aloud.

   We should deal with these problems one at a time.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   Separately, so that each person or thing gets full attention before the next.

   Grammar: Often used to emphasize patience and careful order.

   Patterns

   • one at a time, please
   • handle something one at a time

   The doctor sees patients one at a time, so you may have to wait.

   Let's go through the questions one at a time.

Common combinations

one at a time, please

One at a time, please—there's enough for everyone.

take something one at a time

Try to take each day one at a time.

one at a time in order

The names were called one at a time in order.

deal with something one at a time

Let's deal with the complaints one at a time.

Synonyms and how they differ

individually

Similar but can also mean 'separately from others' without the idea of a sequence.

one by one

Means the same and is often used interchangeably; 'one by one' sometimes suggests a steady succession.

Opposites

Commonly confused: one at a time or at one time?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “one at a time”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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