a small quibble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small quibble" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to point out a minor issue or disagreement in a discussion or argument. Example: "While I appreciate your analysis, I have a small quibble regarding your interpretation of the data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

But that is a small quibble about an elegant and fair primer on a contentious issue.

The Economist

Still, this is a small quibble about a deeply intelligent, provocative book.

The Economist

But this was a small quibble in what was in many ways a statement game.

The Washington Post

I sympathize with Hoyt's perplexity, but I have a small quibble.

The New Yorker

This is a small quibble against someone with a far rarer talent than perfect timbre.

The New York Times - Arts

Though I am writing about a small quibble, to a Chicagoan it is an important one.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

A smaller quibble is that she has also elected not to provide any pictures of the many species of birds, animals and insects that she discusses in these pages, even though she points out that she took hundreds of photographs that "helped me get the details right".

The New York Times - Books

Still, these are all small quibbles, only able to be made by comparison with the ideal.

The New York Times - Books

MK digs it for the most part with only a few small quibbles.

Huffington Post

I do have one small quibble: just because a MO was published previously does not mean that appropriate controls for specificity and efficacy were carried out.

eLife

I have one small quibble.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small quibble" to politely introduce a minor criticism without undermining the overall positive sentiment of your statement. It's effective in maintaining a constructive tone.

Common error

Avoid using "a small quibble" too frequently in close proximity. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing seem overly critical or hesitant. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small quibble" functions as a qualifying expression, typically used to introduce a minor criticism or objection. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it softens the impact of the criticism, indicating that the issue is not substantial or critical.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small quibble" is a useful expression for introducing a minor criticism or objection in a polite and non-confrontational way. Ludwig indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using the phrase, remember that it softens the impact of any criticism and is best suited for situations where the issue is relatively insignificant. As shown by Ludwig, consider alternative phrases like "a minor objection" or "a slight reservation" to add variety to your writing and avoid overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor objection

Focuses on the act of objecting, highlighting its insignificant nature.

a slight reservation

Emphasizes a feeling of doubt or hesitation, presenting it as minimal.

a minor point

Simplifies the objection to a single, understated detail.

a trivial complaint

Directly labels the issue as insignificant and easy to dismiss.

a petty concern

Underscores the unimportance of the matter, presenting it as insignificant.

a negligible issue

Highlights the insignificance of the problem, suggesting it's barely worth considering.

a slight niggle

Uses a more colloquial term to describe a minor irritation or concern.

a small point of contention

Indicates a slight disagreement but emphasizes it doesn't significantly disrupt overall agreement.

a fleeting concern

Suggests the issue is temporary and will soon pass.

a whisper of dissent

Evokes a sense of faint disagreement, emphasizing its subtle and gentle nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small quibble" to introduce a minor point of disagreement or criticism. For example, "That's "a small quibble" about an otherwise excellent proposal".

What can I say instead of "a small quibble"?

Alternatives include "a minor objection", "a slight reservation", or "a trivial complaint" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a small quibble" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small quibble" is generally appropriate for formal writing, as it is a polite way to introduce a minor criticism or point of contention. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece to ensure it fits.

What's the difference between "a small quibble" and "a major concern"?

"A small quibble" indicates a minor, insignificant issue, while "a major concern" highlights a serious, significant problem that requires attention and resolution.