One and only Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈwən/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈoʊnɫi

WUN and OHN-lee

UK

wˈɒn/ /ˈænd/ /ˈəʊnli

WON and OHN-lee

Definition

Used to emphasize that someone or something is the only example of its kind; often shows affection or admiration.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and emotionally expressive. Used especially about loved ones or celebrities ("my one and only"), or to stress something's uniqueness. Often used in introductions or when talking about someone very special. Not usually literal—means 'the most important or unique'.

• Spanish: único - el único
• Portuguese (BR): único - o único
• Portuguese (PT): único - o único
• Chinese (Simplified): 唯一
• Chinese (Traditional): 唯一
• Hindi: एक और केवल
• Arabic: الوحيد
• Bengali: একমাত্র - অনন্য
• Russian: единственный и неповторимый - единственная
• Japanese: 唯一無二 - たった一人（特別な人の意味で）
• Vietnamese: duy nhất - độc nhất vô nhị
• Korean: 유일한 - 단 하나뿐인
• Turkish: biricik - tek ve eşsiz
• Urdu: واحد اور لا ثانی - اک و تنها
• Indonesian: satu-satunya - yang tiada duanya

Example Sentences

She is my one and only friend in the city.

basic

This is the one and only way to solve the problem.

basic

My dad is my one and only hero.

basic

Please welcome the one and only Michael Jordan!

natural

You're my one and only—no one else compares.

natural

Is this the one and only pizza place everyone talks about?

natural