Phrase: One (thing) at a time

Phrase: One (thing) at a time

 Meaning

  • To do or deal with one thing before starting to do or deal with another.
  • We use this expression to talk about a sequence of things or activities.
  • To do (something) at a time means to do it slowly and carefully, doing just a little at a time or doing it one by one.

Dialog 1

A: "Are you the sort of person who plans everything when on holiday?"

B: "No. I take it one day at a time and just see what happens."


Dialog 2

A: "I want you to book the tickets, phone a taxi, organize the hotel and plan the meeting."

B: "Ok, but I can only do one thing at a time."


Example Sentences

  • "There are a few problems, but let's take one thing at a time."
  • "Do one thing at a time, and do it well."
  • "You're confusing him! Tell him slowly and one thing at a time."
  • "The shortest way to do many things is to do only one thing at a time."
  • "Doing one thing at a time is probably the most basic habit of concentration.
  • "You must develop a habit of doing one thing at a time."
  • "Work on one thing at a time."
  • "Focus on just one thing at a time."
  • "He wanted to rush through the job, but I encouraged him to take it one step at a time."
  • "It is desirable to take one step at a time."


QUESTIONS

  • Can we truly multitask and do different things at a time?
  • Do you prefer multitasking or doing one thing at a time?


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