Translation guide
Expressing the idea of 'a single person' in Japanese depends on context: counting people, emphasizing 'just one', or referring to an individual. The most common way is using the counter 一人 (ひとり).
To say 'one person' when counting or stating the number of people.
The standard counter for one person. Used in almost all contexts.
Formal counter for one person, often used in official documents, reservations, or announcements.
We will seat one guest.
To stress that there is only one person, not more.
Emphasizes 'only one person' or 'just one person'. Often used in emotional or dramatic contexts.
He/She is my only friend.
I fought all alone.
Similar to たった一人, meaning 'only one person'. Slightly more literary.
Only one person remained.
Means 'only one person' in a neutral, everyday way.
Only one person came.
To talk about 'a single person' as an individual, often in contrast to a group.
To express that someone does something alone, without others.
The counter 一つ (ひとつ) is for inanimate objects. Using it for people is incorrect. Always use 一人 (ひとり) for one person.
one student
A single person was involved in the incident.