a slight deflection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight deflection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are describing a minor change in direction or position, often in scientific or technical discussions. Example: "The experiment showed a slight deflection in the laser beam when it passed through the prism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It took a slight deflection but the referee gave a goal kick.

The Guardian - Sport

I hit it, it took a slight deflection, and went in".

Independent

After holding off a couple of markers he shot beyond Krul, the ball taking a slight deflection off Daryl Janmaat.

The Guardian - Sport

A slight deflection off Vidic took the ball into the net and soothed any lingering nerves in the home crowd.

The Guardian - Sport

Ayew was quick to pounce on the loose ball and steered home via a slight deflection off Glenn Loovens.

The Guardian - Sport

A slight deflection off Spearing looked to have taken the ball over Lonergan but the goalkeeper did superbly to touch it on to the bar.

The Guardian - Sport

The Brazilian was given a free run at goal as Watford's defenders backed off and his low shot took a slight deflection before sailing through Gomes's unconvincing guard.

The Guardian - Sport

The goal was slightly unlucky with a slight deflection but we matched them across the pitch and thought the draw would have been a fair result".

The Guardian - Sport

There's desperation in that shot, but also some venom and it takes a slight deflection on its way past the mighty Rustu into the net.

The Guardian - Sport

Elrich's pass took a slight deflection off Glory defender Rhys Williams' outstretched boot, before bouncing into Risdon's leg and into the net.

The Guardian - Sport

Milan almost increased their lead just after half-time but Giacomo Bonaventura's effort took a slight deflection off Andrea Ranocchia and flashed across the face of goal.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events where precision is important, such as in scientific experiments or sports commentary, use "a slight deflection" to accurately convey a small change in direction.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight deflection" when the change in direction is significant. Use stronger terms like "major deviation" or "sharp turn" to accurately reflect the magnitude of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight deflection" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig shows its use in describing a change of direction, often in the context of sports or scientific observations. The Ludwig AI affirms the usage as correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a slight deflection" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a minor change in direction. As Ludwig highlights, it is frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, where precision is key. The phrase conveys that the alteration is not significant but still worthy of attention. Related phrases include "a minor deviation" and "a small shift". When using this phrase, ensure that the degree of deflection is indeed slight to avoid overstatement. Overall, "a slight deflection" is a useful and versatile phrase for accurately describing minor changes in direction across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor deviation

Emphasizes a departure from a course or standard, similar to a deflection but applicable in broader contexts.

a small shift

Indicates a change in position or direction, focusing on the limited extent of the movement.

a gentle swerve

Suggests a smooth, curved deviation, applicable when the change in direction is gradual.

a subtle alteration

Highlights the inconspicuous nature of the change, implying it might be difficult to notice.

a marginal change of course

Specifies a change in direction, emphasizing how small or insignificant it is.

a near imperceptible veer

Veer implies a change in direction, and near imperceptible stresses that is hard to perceive.

a light redirecting

This alternative stresses the light entity changes its direction.

a hairline turn

Turn implies a change in direction that is so small it looks like a hairline.

a delicate deviation

Emphasizing not just the change in direction, but also that the change happened in a careful way.

a marginal swerving

Indicates a deviation that is smooth and curved.

FAQs

How can I use "a slight deflection" in a sentence?

You can use "a slight deflection" to describe a minor change in direction or position. For example: "The ball took "a slight deflection" off the defender's leg before going into the net."

What are some alternatives to "a slight deflection"?

Some alternatives include "a minor deviation", "a small shift", or "a gentle swerve" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a slight deflection" instead of "a major change of direction"?

"A slight deflection" is appropriate when the change in direction is minimal and subtle. "A major change of direction" should be used when the change is significant and noticeable.

Is "a slight deflection" formal or informal language?

"A slight deflection" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly found in news reports, scientific articles, and everyday conversation.