is the only vs is it the only

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Is the only' is used when stating a fact or making a statement, while 'Is it the only' is used when asking a question to confirm if something is the sole option or occurrence.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 1037 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when stating a fact or making a statement about the exclusivity of something.

"is the only "

Use 'is the only' when you want to emphasize that something is the sole option or occurrence without asking a question.

Examples:

This is the only solution to the problem.
She is the only person who knows the truth.

Show examples from the web [+]

Transparency is the only means of assuring accountability.
The website said Thirsk is the only full-time employee.
Violence is the only thing those people understand.
Regime change is the only solution.
Which is the only response to such circumstantial evidence.
Equestrian is the only mixed-gender Olympic event.
Peace through understanding is the only real...
Digital TV is the only convergent technology without basic interoperability.
Vaccination is the only safe protection.
This is the only surviving copy.
This is the only security video that gives us anything.
This is the only case that matters.
French Mary Poppins Barbie is the only me that's been any fun.
The boy's word is the only evidence against him.
Elsa is the only one who can rule Arendelle.
Now, this is the only part that matters.
Pan is the only family we need. No.
But Jeffrey Grant is the only one at the same school as Miss Littlejohn.
This is the only object that makes sense, based on the injuries.
He is the only eyewitness and needs to be isolated.

Alternatives:

is the sole
is the single
is the exclusive
is the unique
is the one and only

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when asking a question to confirm if something is the sole option or occurrence.

"is it the only"

Use 'is it the only' when you want to inquire if something is the only choice or possibility available.

Examples:

Is it the only way to get there?
Is it the only option we have?

Show examples from the web [+]

Best of me Is it the only thin left for me?
Sitting here, in the darkness with my friends Mr Madness Hitting on my shoulder Making me feel older Best of me Is it the only thin left for me?
Nor is it the only way to express it.
So why is it the only word echoing in my head is...
Not only - I am convinced - is it the only technical solution that can be regarded as suitable to German conditions, but it also has many other potential uses over and beyond simply collecting tolls.
Making the employment system more flexible is not the only answer, nor is it the only way to achieve the economic sustainability that we advocate.
A favourable vote by the European Parliament should not conceal the fact that it is not the ideal solution nor is it the only one possible.
Or is it the only chance you may ever have of sleeping with her?
Mom, why is it the only time you call me smart is when you're being sarcastic?
No one else seems to be losing sleep over it so why is it the only thing I can think about?
Tennessee, why is it the only thing we have in this house is parrot food?
The United States is not the only guardian of peace and justice, nor is it the only country qualified to declare war should that prove to be necessary and unavoidable in the interests of the common good.

Alternatives:

is this the only
is that the only
is there the only
is he/she the only
is this the sole

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is the only vs is it the only

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