one-on-one

adjective or adverb

ˌwən-ȯn-ˈwən How to pronounce one-on-one (audio)
ˌwən-än-
Synonyms of one-on-onenext
1
: playing directly against a single opposing player
2
: involving a direct encounter between one person and another

Examples of one-on-one in a Sentence

bragged that no one could go one-on-one with her in a game of darts and win
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Messi got at the end of a through ball in the box, was one-on-one with Vozinha, and the keeper blocked the legend’s shot with his mid-section. Miami Herald, 4 July 2026 Vozinha, the breakout star of the World Cup, made eight saves, including an excellent stop to prevent Messi in a one-on-one. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 July 2026 One of its key features is its focus on individualization and one-on-one instruction, rather than traditional group lessons. Brittney Melton, NPR, 2 July 2026 Start with confidential one-on-one conversations focused on listening, not defending. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for one-on-one

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-on-one was in 1940

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Cite this Entry

“One-on-one.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-on-one. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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