single out

Idioms and Phrases

Choose or distinguish from others, as in We singled him out from all the other applicants . This idiom was first recorded in 1629.

Example Sentences

He singled out boys attending the camps and in sessions at leading public schools, including Winchester College, before taking them to his home and beating them with a garden cane in his shed.

From BBC

It complained the original ruling was unfair as it singled out one company for a global issue, and said it was unrealistic to try to hold Shell accountable for its customers' choices.

From BBC

During his tour, the 80-year-old president has singled out his policy to scrap fees for secondary schools as his "most significant legacy".

From BBC

Last month, he appeared to single out Europe.

From BBC

As he went around the room challenging his players to maintain belief, he singled out Buehler in particular.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accept
• adopt
• appoint
• cast
• designate
• determine
• elect
• embrace
• favor
• judge
• love
• name
• prefer
• take
• want