a minor role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a minor role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a character or position that has limited importance or influence in a particular context, such as in a play, film, or organization. Example: "In the film, she played a minor role, but her performance still left a lasting impression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Credibility evaluations played a minor role.

The New York Times

Interest rates play only a minor role.

The New York Times

In this calculation, interest rates play only a minor role.

The New York Times

Diffuse processes play, at most, a minor role.

The New York Times - Science

Frank plays a minor role in the Prologue.

The New Yorker

Human error seems to have played only a minor role.

The New York Times

He had a minor role in the film "Almost Famous".

The New York Times - Arts

"But those turn out to only play a minor role".

The New York Times - Science

(Ms. Dunham plays a minor role in "Supporting Characters").

The New York Times

Upper-body strength plays at best a minor role.

The New York Times - Health

The wasabi played a minor role in the tasty mix.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a minor role", ensure the context clearly establishes what the primary or major roles are for contrast and clarity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of something described as playing "a minor role". Be realistic about the limited influence or importance being conveyed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor role" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the extent of involvement or importance of someone or something in a particular context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a common and grammatically sound phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

43%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a minor role" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something or someone with limited influence or importance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage across various domains. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, the phrase is versatile enough for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases such as ""a small role"" or ""a secondary role"" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. When employing "a minor role", ensure the context clearly defines the primary roles for effective contrast, and avoid overstating the significance being conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marginal role

Indicates an even smaller degree of influence or importance than "a minor role".

a small role

Uses the adjective "small" instead of "minor", suggesting a reduced size or extent of involvement.

a secondary role

Highlights the supportive nature of the role, implying it is not the primary focus.

a limited role

Emphasizes the restricted scope or extent of the involvement.

a trivial role

Suggests the role is insignificant or inconsequential.

an insignificant part

Focuses on the lack of importance of the part or contribution.

a subordinate position

Implies a lower rank or level of authority.

a bit part

Colloquial term for a very small role in a performance.

a supporting role

Indicates the role provides assistance or backup to the main actors.

a negligible contribution

Highlights the minimal impact or effect of the contribution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a minor role" to describe something or someone that has limited influence or importance in a particular situation. For example, "Human error seems to have played only "a minor role"."

What are some alternatives to "a minor role"?

Some alternatives include "a small role", "a limited role", or "a secondary role", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a minor role" in formal writing?

Yes, "a minor role" is suitable for formal writing as it is grammatically correct and widely understood. Its usage is appropriate in both professional and academic contexts.

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

"A minor role" indicates limited importance or influence, while "a major role" signifies significant importance or influence. They are antonyms, representing opposite ends of the spectrum of importance.