Meaning of once In English

• 0 one single time:

  • I went sailing once, but I didn't like it.

  • We have lunch together once a month.

  • They all started talking at once.

  • For once, the bus came on time.

  • All right, I'll lend you the money - just this once.

  • Once again, racist attacks are increasing across Europe.

  • I'd like to visit the campus once more before we leave.

  • When my father came home, everything felt right once more.

  • I've seen him once or twice in town.

  • We meet for lunch once in a while.

  • Our intention is to destroy their offensive capability once and for all.

  • An opportunity as good as this arises once in a lifetime.

  • I've only played rugby the once, and I never want to play it again.

• 1 in the past, but not now:

  • This house once belonged to my grandfather.

  • Computers are much cheaper nowadays than they once were.

  • Once-thriving villages stand deserted and in ruins.

• 2 as soon as, or from the moment when:

  • Once I've found somewhere to live I'll send you my address.

  • Remember that you won't be able to cancel the contract once you've signed.

  • I knew at once that I'd like it here.

• 3 on or at a single time:

  • I went to Disney World once.

  • The book club meets once a month.

  • Going to the Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (= a rare and valuable one).

• 4 in the past, but not now:

  • I lived in Milwaukee once.

  • Computers are much cheaper now than they once were.

• 5 as soon as, or when:

  • Once you’ve tried their ice cream, you’ll be back for more.