"is the only" vs "is it the only"

Question

"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

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.

Alternatives:

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

Alternatives:

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

Answer 1

is the only

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

Answer 2

is it the 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 the only" vs "is it the only"

is the only

is it the only

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