The one and only Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈwən/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈoʊnɫi

thuh WUN and OHN-lee

UK

ðə, ði/ /wˈɒn/ /ˈænd/ /ˈəʊnli

thuh WON and OHN-lee

Definition

Used to emphasize that a person or thing is unique and special—there is no one or nothing else like them.

Usage & Nuances

Often used with names for dramatic or affectionate emphasis. Common in introductions, shows, or when admiring someone. Usually informal or playful. Can be used sincerely or with a touch of irony.

• Spanish: el único - la única
• Portuguese (BR): o único - a única
• Portuguese (PT): o único - a única
• Chinese (Simplified): 独一无二的
• Chinese (Traditional): 獨一無二的
• Hindi: अकेला और अनोखा
• Arabic: الوحيد والفريد
• Bengali: এক এবং অদ্বিতীয় - অনন্য
• Russian: единственный и неповторимый - одна-единственная
• Japanese: 唯一無二（ゆいいつむに） - ただ一人（ただひとり）
• Vietnamese: duy nhất - độc nhất vô nhị
• Korean: 유일무이 - 단 하나
• Turkish: tek ve biricik - biricik
• Urdu: واحد و یگانہ - منفرد
• Indonesian: satu-satunya - yang tiada duanya

Example Sentences

He is the one and only hero of this story.

basic

She called her dog the one and only Max.

basic

That's the one and only way to win.

basic

Please welcome, the one and only, Mr. Thompson!

natural

You are the one and only person I trust with this secret.

natural

Saturday night with the one and only Sarah—what could be better?

natural