a small negative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small negative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor disadvantage or drawback in a situation or context. Example: "While the project has many benefits, there is a small negative that we need to address regarding the budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In many cases the models predict a small negative association, but this is not statistically different from zero.

The Guardian

It wouldn't be a great surprise if the GDP number was a small negative number.

The Guardian - Business

The study concludes that low-skilled migration has only a "small negative impact" on the wages of the low paid, with effects varying widely between areas.

The Guardian

"Most studies find a small negative link between the total hours a child spends viewing TV and that child's academic achievement.

The Guardian

This dynamic potentially causes a small negative impact on the wages of less-skilled workers – but it's also possible that this impact is positive.

The New York Times

There was a small negative correlation between NCV and CSA in the working arm.

Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology

Moreover, the results suggest a small negative effect on the employment rate of younger workers.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

There is also a small negative gap in the probability of being currently employed.

SERIEs

This procedure is continued until is greater than or equal to a small negative tolerance.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

We find that immigration has a small negative impact on average British wages.

IZA Journal of Development and Migration

Tree size (dq) had only a small negative effect (Fig. 2c).

Forest Ecosystems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small negative", ensure the context clarifies what is being negatively affected and the scale of the impact. Quantify the impact if possible to provide a clearer understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a small negative" when the actual impact is significant. Accurately assess and represent the degree of negativity to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small negative" functions as a qualifier, typically modifying a noun to indicate a minor or insignificant adverse effect, impact, or consequence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

27%

Formal & Business

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small negative" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a minor disadvantage or adverse effect. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and widely applicable. It's prevalent in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure accuracy in representing the true scale of the negative impact and consider alternative expressions like "a slight disadvantage" or "a minor drawback" to suit the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marginal negative impact

Specifically refers to the 'impact' being only slightly negative.

a modest negative influence

Specifically refers to the 'influence' being only modestly negative.

a slight disadvantage

Focuses on the 'disadvantage' aspect, implying a minor negative aspect.

a minor drawback

Emphasizes the 'drawback' element, suggesting a small imperfection.

a minimal adverse effect

Underscores the 'adverse effect' is very small.

a limited negative effect

Refers to the 'effect' being restricted or constrained.

a negligible downside

Highlights the 'downside' as being almost insignificant.

a mild negative consequence

Highlights the 'consequence' as being gently negative.

a trifling negative aspect

Focuses on the "aspect" as being insignificant and negative.

a petty negative detail

Focuses on the "detail" as being insignificant and negative.

FAQs

How can I use "a small negative" in a sentence?

You can use "a small negative" to describe a minor disadvantage or drawback. For example: "While the new policy has many benefits, there's "a small negative" concerning its implementation costs."

What are some alternatives to "a small negative"?

You can use alternatives like "a slight disadvantage", "a minor drawback", or "a marginal negative impact" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a small negative impact" or "a slightly negative impact"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "a small negative impact" focuses on the size or magnitude of the impact, while "a slightly negative impact" emphasizes the degree of negativity. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a small negative" and "a significant negative"?

"A small negative" indicates a minor drawback or disadvantage, while "a significant negative" suggests a substantial and important problem. The choice depends on the actual magnitude of the negative effect.