a slight inaccuracy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight inaccuracy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor error or discrepancy in information or data. Example: "The report contained a slight inaccuracy regarding the sales figures from last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In contrast with random selection, the number of random variables summed together (K=14) is not large enough in the fixed selection which gives a slight inaccuracy.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

This might have resulted in a slight inaccuracy in our results, e.g. with regards to the modelling of particular pathogens in alternative national settings.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Since expression of the constructs is driven by the ubiquitous CAGGS promoter, even a slight inaccuracy in positioning the electrode would result in expression in the neural tube or the lateral plate.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As a consequence, slight inaccuracies or uncertainties while calculating the cost of equity can be neglected in our case.

Business Research

Here 'weight' is used as a synonym of mass, despite the slight inaccuracy.

BMC Ecology

This might be a slight semantic inaccuracy but is important because it reflects different molecular mechanisms.

F1000Research

An impressive early second-half drive that featured a lot of Beanie Wells was halted by a red zone interception that came courtesy of Kevin Kolb's slight inaccuracy.

The New York Times

However, slight inaccuracy in the reduction and even the induction of an astigmatic error has been reported, and these can limit uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA).

BMC Ophthalmology

There were technically shaky elements to his performance, and his focused, quick vibrato revealed every slight inaccuracy of pitch.

The New York Times - Arts

The source of Boyer's slight inaccuracy may have been the documentary film "Who Killed the Electric Car?," which used a clip of a visit I made to the "Late Show with David Letterman," during which I claimed to be saving America one electric car at a time.

The New Yorker

The expression is used in the present work, albeit with slight inaccuracy, even when the ratio ( frac{c}{w} ) exceeds 0.7.

International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slight inaccuracy", ensure the context clearly indicates the magnitude of the error. Avoid using it to describe major discrepancies, as this could mislead the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight inaccuracy" when the error has significant consequences. This diminishes the impact of the issue and can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight inaccuracy" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies something as being not entirely correct, but only by a small degree. This aligns with Ludwig's analysis of its usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slight inaccuracy" is a noun phrase used to describe a minor error or discrepancy. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and best used when the error is not substantial. Its use is neutral making it appropriate for various contexts, including scientific and news reporting. However, overstating its significance or using it for consequential errors should be avoided. Alternatives like "minor error" or "small mistake" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor error

Focuses on the mistake itself, emphasizing its small scale.

a small mistake

Highlights the fault while downplaying its impact.

a trivial error

Indicates that the error is not significant and has little consequence.

a minor discrepancy

Emphasizes the lack of alignment between facts or figures, rather than the error itself.

a negligible inaccuracy

Stresses how insignificant the inaccuracy is.

a marginal imprecision

Suggests the value is approximate and may be off by a small amount. Suitable for technical contexts.

a technicality

Implies the inaccuracy is a minor, formal detail that does not affect the main point.

a petty mistake

The word "petty" suggests how insignificant the mistake is.

a venial error

The word "venial" suggests the error is forgivable or excusable.

a touch of inexactness

Softens the statement by using less direct language.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slight inaccuracy" to describe a minor error or discrepancy, as in "The report contained "a slight inaccuracy" regarding the sales figures."

What phrases are similar to "a slight inaccuracy"?

Alternatives to "a slight inaccuracy" include phrases like "a minor error", "a small mistake", or "a trivial error".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a slight inaccuracy"?

Use "a slight inaccuracy" when referring to errors that are minor and do not significantly impact the overall understanding or outcome. Avoid using it when the error is substantial or consequential.

Is "a slight inaccuracy" the same as "a major error"?

No, "a slight inaccuracy" implies a small, relatively unimportant error, whereas "a major error" refers to a significant mistake with potentially serious consequences. They are not interchangeable.