a mere annoyance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mere annoyance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is bothersome but not significant or serious. Example: "The constant notifications on my phone are just a mere annoyance that distracts me from my work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

After that, they are a mere annoyance.

The New York Times

The use of this information to target advertising might amount to a mere annoyance to most people.

The New York Times

One thing is certain: what was once a mere annoyance is now being taken far more seriously.

The New York Times

The threat of terrorists hitting Indian Point makes the possibility of an infected mosquito seem a mere annoyance.

The New York Times

Most often, drought is a mere annoyance to the Kuchis of the Registan Desert, for these nomads can find water where others cannot.

The New York Times

When I noted to Shamara that I still had to drive through two checkpoints on the street leading to his house, he responded dismissively, as if the militarized cityscape was now a mere annoyance.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

(This is not to say that the specific reactive attitude a person may have on a given occasion of blind rage as opposed to mere annoyance, for example—is always justified).

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In this case, the bedbugs did not constitute mere annoyance, but constituted an intolerable condition, notwithstanding the landlord's efforts to exterminate them," wrote Judge Bedford, who granted Mr. Young a 45percentt rent abatement.

The New York Times

For the most part, it was cruelty, or at least impingement, ranging from rape to humiliation to mere annoyance: people rubbing against others, blowing their breath on them.

The New Yorker

The concerns go beyond mere annoyance: casinos are seeking to stop phone-based cheating; prison authorities want to guard against phone use by inmates for drug deals or other forms of wrongdoing.

The New York Times - Tech

Such audits and studies might seem to be mere annoyances, but as part of a larger effort to derail the consumer agency, they are dangerous steps.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a mere annoyance", ensure the context clearly establishes that the issue is indeed minor and does not warrant excessive concern.

Common error

Avoid using "a mere annoyance" when the issue at hand has serious consequences or causes significant disruption; this can undermine your credibility and seem dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mere annoyance" functions as a noun phrase that describes something of little significance or impact. As supported by Ludwig, it denotes a situation or thing that is bothersome but not serious.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science & Research

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mere annoyance" is a phrase used to describe something bothersome but not serious. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is common in various contexts, especially in News & Media. While its register is neutral, it's important to avoid using it when the issue has significant consequences, as it could be perceived as dismissive. Some alternatives include "slight irritation" and "minor inconvenience". Understanding the nuances of this phrase allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight irritation

Focuses on the mild degree of bother or frustration caused.

a minor inconvenience

Emphasizes the lack of significant disruption or difficulty.

a trivial nuisance

Highlights the insignificance and bothersome nature of the issue.

a petty irritation

Stresses the small and often insignificant nature of the problem.

a small bother

Uses simpler language to convey the idea of something that is slightly troubling.

a passing irritation

Indicates that the annoyance is temporary and will not last long.

a trifling matter

Focuses on the lack of importance or consequence.

a negligible problem

Emphasizes the minimal impact or effect of the issue.

a superficial irritation

Highlights that the annoyance is only on the surface and not deeply felt.

a momentary vexation

Focuses on the fleeting and irritating nature of the experience.

FAQs

How can I use "a mere annoyance" in a sentence?

You can use "a mere annoyance" to describe something that is bothersome but not serious. For example, "The fly buzzing around my head was "a mere annoyance" during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "a mere annoyance"?

You can use alternatives like "slight irritation", "minor inconvenience", or "trivial nuisance" to express a similar meaning.

Is "a mere annoyance" formal or informal?

"A mere annoyance" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the audience and situation. Its appropriateness hinges on whether you need to underscore the insignificance of a matter.

What is the difference between "a mere annoyance" and "a serious problem"?

"A mere annoyance" implies something is only slightly bothersome and easily tolerated, whereas "a serious problem" indicates a significant issue that requires attention and resolution. The key difference lies in the level of impact and urgency.