a minor issue

USAGE SUMMARY

'a minor issue' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a problem that is relatively small or insignificant compared to other problems or issues. For example, "We had some minor issues with the new system, but they are all easily resolved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since our trade deficit is around $500 billion a year, this is not a minor issue.

Huffington Post

So, celebrity privacy is a minor issue".

Independent

It is not a minor issue.

The Guardian - Tech

It was a minor issue which has been dealt with.

The Guardian - Sport

The White House called the underpaid taxes "a minor issue".

The New York Times

They said it was a minor issue for voters.

The New York Times

The chairs, however, were a minor issue compared with the renovation's final stage.

The New York Times

On the campaign trail, concerns over Iraq and the economy have made education a minor issue.

The Economist

There's no making of mistakes here, and money is a minor issue.

The New Yorker

His resignation was forced on February 2 , 1742 on a minor issue.

Britannica

In the wider context, U.S.-Japan disagreements over repositioning Okinawa bases are a minor issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a minor issue", ensure the context clearly establishes that the issue's impact is genuinely limited. Overstating its insignificance can undermine your credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a minor issue" to downplay problems that have broader implications or could escalate. Always assess the potential consequences before labeling something as minor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor issue" functions as a noun phrase that serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes the nature or status of something, indicating that it is not significant or important. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

18%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a minor issue" is a commonly used phrase to describe a problem or concern of little significance. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. The phrase is frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, serving the purpose of downplaying the importance of a subject. While generally neutral in register, its use should be carefully considered to avoid misrepresenting the true impact of the issue at hand. Alternatives like ""a trivial matter"" or ""an insignificant problem"" offer similar nuances, but all possible consequences should be assessed before describing an issue as such.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trivial matter

This alternative emphasizes the lack of importance or seriousness of the issue.

an insignificant problem

This phrase highlights the minimal impact or consequence of the problem.

a small concern

This alternative suggests a low level of worry or attention needed for the issue.

a negligible detail

This phrase focuses on the issue being so small that it's hardly worth considering.

a slight difficulty

This option points to a mild impediment or challenge posed by the issue.

a non-critical problem

This alternative indicates the problem does not have any major consequences.

a petty detail

This phrase conveys the issue being so small as to be almost irrelevant or beneath consideration.

a light issue

This alternative suggests that the issue is not heavy, but it can still need some kind of consideration.

a superficial matter

This phrase means something that is not deep or important.

a fringe question

This option points to a concern that is not central and not related to the core of the topic being treated.

FAQs

How can I use "a minor issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a minor issue" to describe a problem or concern that is not significant or important. For example, "The delay was "a minor issue" compared to the overall success of the project".

What are some alternatives to "a minor issue"?

Alternatives include "a trivial matter", "an insignificant problem", or "a small concern". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a disagreement as "a minor issue"?

It can be, but be cautious. If the disagreement has the potential to escalate or affect important relationships, it's best to avoid downplaying it as "a minor issue".

What's the difference between "a minor issue" and "a major issue"?

"A minor issue" refers to something that is not particularly important or impactful, while "a major issue" indicates a significant problem with substantial consequences.