a slight reduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight reduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small decrease in quantity, size, or intensity. Example: "The company announced a slight reduction in prices for the upcoming sale."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They also experienced a slight reduction in blood pressure.

The New York Times - Health

Holding time also led to a slight reduction in meltability.

Journal of Dairy Science

One study did credit floss with a slight reduction in gum inflammation.

The Guardian

The latest survey responses also show a slight reduction in frustration with benefit claimants.

The Guardian

However, this was a slight reduction compared with the 2006 survey (48%).

The Guardian

At 11 weeks only rodΔVhl;Hif2a mice showed a slight reduction of Gnat1 expression (Fig. 2c).

Nature

Indeed, there was a slight reduction in binding to Vn, albeit not statistically significant.

Nature

I used this unit for 4 years and by the fourth year noticed a slight reduction in performance.

Cornell University

As discussed previously, the mix of business will result in a slight reduction in group margins compared to last year.

The Guardian - Business

The endowment is also planning a slight reduction in domestic equities to 11percentt, from 12percentt.

The New York Times

Mr. Woods added, "Some venues will have a slight reduction, but no venue is going to lose the symphony".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a slight reduction" to accurately portray a small decrease without exaggeration. It's suitable for reports, articles, and general communication where precision matters.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight reduction" when the decrease is actually substantial. Overstating a minor change can mislead your audience. Choose stronger language if the reduction is significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight reduction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It indicates a decrease that is small or insignificant. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is valid and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a slight reduction" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a small decrease in something. As Ludwig confirms, it's widely used across various domains, particularly in science and news media. When writing, be mindful of accurately portraying the scale of the reduction. Overstating or understating the change can mislead your audience. By understanding the nuances of its usage, you can effectively communicate subtle shifts and changes in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minimal decrease

Emphasizes the insignificance of the reduction.

a small downturn

Suggests a negative trend, albeit a minor one.

a marginal decline

Highlights that the decrease is at the edge of significance.

a mild dip

Conveys a temporary and gentle decrease.

a modest cutback

Focuses on the action of reducing, with a moderate scale.

a shade less

Uses informal language to indicate a small quantity less.

a hair's breadth difference

Highlights an extremely small margin of reduction.

a negligible decrement

Emphasizes the unimportance of the reduction, using technical term.

a fractional drop

Indicates a reduction expressed as a small fraction.

a trace lessening

Suggests a very subtle and barely noticeable reduction.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slight reduction" to describe a small decrease in something, such as "There was "a slight reduction" in the number of applicants this year".

What's the difference between "a slight reduction" and "a significant reduction"?

"A slight reduction" refers to a small or minimal decrease, while "a significant reduction" indicates a notable or substantial decrease. The choice depends on the magnitude of the change you're describing.

What are some alternatives to "a slight reduction"?

You can use alternatives like "a minimal decrease", "a small downturn", or "a marginal decline" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a slight reduction" in formal writing?

Yes, "a slight reduction" is generally appropriate for formal writing when accurately describing a small decrease. However, consider the specific context and audience. In highly technical or scientific writing, more precise quantitative terms might be preferred.