one way

Meaning

'One way' refers to a ticket or journey that allows travel to a destination but not back. It is also used to describe a street where traffic is legally permitted to move in only one direction. When booking travel, it is the opposite of a 'round trip' or 'return' ticket.

Examples

• I bought a one-way ticket to London because I don't know when I'll return.

  I bought a one-way ticket to London because I don't know when I'll return.

• Is it cheaper to buy two one-way tickets or a round-trip ticket?

  Is it cheaper to buy two one-way tickets or a round-trip ticket?

• Be careful, this is a one-way street and you cannot turn left here.

  Be careful, this is a one-way street and you cannot turn left here.

• I only need a one-way train ticket to Chicago.

  I only need a one-way train ticket to Chicago.

• She booked a one-way flight to start her new life abroad.

  She booked a one-way flight to start her new life abroad.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I need a single ticket to Paris.

  ✓ I need a one-way ticket to Paris.

  While 'single ticket' is used in British English, 'one-way ticket' is universally understood and prevents confusion with traveling alone.

• ✗ This road is only one direction.

  ✓ This is a one-way street.

  To describe a street where traffic flows in only one direction, use the adjective phrase 'one-way street'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• I am not coming back, so I just need a ___ ticket.

  💡 A ticket for a trip to a destination without a return.

  Show answer

  one way

• Don't drive down there; it is a ___ street!

  💡 A street where cars can only drive in one direction.

  Show answer

  one way