for once | just this once

This page is about the conversational phrase for once | just this once

Meaning

You can say this if you'd like something to happen this time, as it rarely or never happens at other times.

For example

  • "Can you do the shopping today?"
    "I do it all the time. Can't you do it for once? "

  • The kids were fighting again, so I said, "I wish, just this once, you'd get through the day without fighting."

Note:
Also "just for once" and "for a change"

Quick Quiz

I said, "I'm tired. Can't you drive for once?" This means

a. I can't drive

b. I rarely drive

c. I usually drive
a) I can't drive b) I rarely drive c) I usually drive

Contributor: Matt Errey