a small sign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small sign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical sign that is diminutive in size or to metaphorically refer to a minor indication of something. Example: "As we walked through the park, we noticed a small sign indicating the rules for pet owners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A small sign promised "ladies" free entrance.

The New York Times

Only a small sign identifies the building.

The New York Times - Arts

A small sign, but perhaps a telling one.

The Economist

There will even be a small sign outside.

The New York Times - Food

It was a small sign of her greatness.

The New York Times

A small sign cautions: "Remember it's just a game.

The New York Times

Goolsby's latest findings do offer a small sign of hope.

The New Yorker

We turn off by a small sign pointing to Grodek.

The Guardian

But elsewhere a small sign says, "Poems Wanted".

The New York Times - Arts

The statement was a small sign that the cyclist's carefully choreographed television confession could pay dividends.

Independent

But a small sign marks hallowed musical ground: Electric Lady Studios.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small sign" to indicate something that is literally a sign of small physical dimensions, such as a signpost or placard. Alternatively, use it to describe a minor indication or clue.

Common error

Avoid overstating the importance of "a small sign". While it may be indicative, it should not be treated as definitive proof without further evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small sign" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves as the subject or object in a sentence, referring to either a physical sign of small size or a figurative indication, as demonstrated by the examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small sign" is a common and versatile noun phrase used to describe both physical signs of diminutive size and subtle indications or clues. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently encountered across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its register is typically neutral, its interpretation can vary depending on the context. When using this phrase, ensure that the level of significance it implies aligns with the evidence provided and that it isn't overstated without further substantiation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subtle indication

This alternative replaces "sign" with "indication", emphasizing the indirect or delicate nature of the clue.

a slight signal

Replacing "sign" with "signal" suggests a more active or intentional form of communication.

a minor clue

This option uses "clue" instead of "sign", highlighting its role in solving a mystery or problem.

a faint glimmer

This phrase evokes a sense of hope or possibility, making it suitable when the sign is positive.

a tiny hint

"Hint" suggests a more veiled or subtle form of information, slightly less direct than a sign.

a modest indicator

"Modest indicator" emphasizes the limited impact or scope of the sign, suggesting humility.

a limited omen

This replacement has a more fatalistic tone, suggesting a sign that foreshadows future events in a very bounded way.

a trace element

Trace element is mostly useful in the fields of chemistry, biology and medicine. Has a scientific tone.

a nuance detail

It may be useful in contexts where a shallow analysis is not sufficient.

a telling symptom

This option introduces a medical or diagnostic context, where the sign is an indication of a underlying issue.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small sign" to describe a literal, diminutive sign or to indicate a minor indication. For example, "A small sign indicated the entrance", or "There was a small sign of improvement".

What's the difference between "a small sign" and "a big sign"?

The difference lies in the magnitude of the indication. "A small sign" suggests a minor or subtle indication, while "a big sign" implies a more obvious or significant one.

What are some alternatives to "a small sign"?

Alternatives include "a subtle indication", "a minor clue", or "a slight signal", depending on the context.

Is it always literal when referring to "a small sign"?

No, "a small sign" can be used metaphorically. For instance, "a small sign of hope" does not refer to a physical sign, but rather to a subtle indication that something positive might happen.