Synonyms for the phrase "singles out" include "selects", "chooses", "picks", "designates", "identifies", "isolates", "spotlights", "focuses on", "targets", and "picks out". All of these synonyms imply a process of singling out or isolating an individual or group from among others. The phrase "singles out" can be used in a positive or negative context, depending on the situation. For example, a teacher may "single out" a student for praise or recognition, while a group may "single out" someone for bullying or exclusion. Whatever the connotation, the phrase "singles out" remains an effective means of describing the act of isolating or picking out individuals from a larger group.