a small thread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small thread" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a thin or fine piece of material, often in the context of sewing, crafting, or metaphorically to indicate a minor connection or idea. Example: "She carefully pulled a small thread from the fabric to fix the loose seam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

All the way through the next week there is a small thread of outbreaks of rain with at times some breezy winds, affecting the North West of the UK, Scotland and Northern Ireland in particular.

Independent

She wanted to feel that her life was a small thread in the huge tangle of the world and that nothing she did mattered all that much one way or the other.

The New Yorker

I'm basically a small thread in this web of insanity that our society has created.

Huffington Post

Yes, many novels have religious content that dominates a book or at least adds a small thread to its tapestry.

Huffington Post

Because Anastasia holds out a small thread of shredded, worn down hope, that she can get "more" from Grey, if she just submits initially.

Huffington Post

For me, personally, Judy Garland represents an indomitable spirit, a razor-sharp wit and an infectious joy, that make her weaknesses a small thread in a very large tapestry of an amazing life and career.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Strongyloides stercoralis is a small thread-like nematode infecting dog, cat and primates including man.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

For instance, in traditional mechanical design, a screw with a deep thread and large pitch is preferred in softer mediums to prevent stripping, while a smaller thread size and pitch are ideal where material strength may not be a concern, but size may be a limiting factor [ 50].

BioMed Research International

For the moment, the changes affect but a single small thread in the tapestry of public education.

The New York Times

Finally, we consider that the self tapping screw with taper configuration and small thread diameter might be a more appropriate design for the cervical pedicle screws.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

The United States, which has more paper bills in circulation than any country, at $608 billion, began to incorporate a small plastic thread into new bills in 1996, to distinguish them from counterfeits.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small thread" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the connection or idea being described as minor or subtle.

Common error

Avoid using "a small thread" to describe something that is actually crucial or significant. This diminishes the impact of your message and confuses the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small thread" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It refers to a physical thread that is small in size, or metaphorically, to something minor or insignificant. Ludwig examples show it within various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

27%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small thread" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe something physically small and thread-like or, metaphorically, to represent something minor or insignificant. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness across different contexts. Its frequency is uncommon, appearing in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly supports its intended meaning, avoiding overstatements of importance. Related alternatives include "a thin strand" and "a minor detail", each offering subtle nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thin strand

Replaces "thread" with "strand", emphasizing the fineness and linearity of the object.

a tiny filament

Substitutes "thread" with "filament", highlighting the delicacy and small size.

a delicate fiber

Emphasizes the fragility and slenderness of the "thread".

a narrow line

Focuses on the linear dimension, suggesting a thin and elongated shape.

a minor detail

Shifts from a literal object to a metaphorical representation of insignificance.

a subtle element

Highlights the unobtrusive and understated nature of the "thread".

an insignificant aspect

Replaces the concrete imagery with an abstract representation of unimportance.

a slight connection

Focuses on the relational aspect, suggesting a weak or tenuous link.

a faint glimmer

Uses metaphorical language to convey a sense of something barely perceptible.

a mere trace

Suggests a minimal amount or presence of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small thread" to describe a thin piece of material, or metaphorically to represent a minor connection or detail. For example: "The plot contained "a small thread" of hope."

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

Alternatives include "a thin strand", "a minor detail", or "an insignificant aspect" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "a small thread" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small thread" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when used metaphorically to describe a subtle connection or element. However, ensure the tone and context align with the overall formality.

How does the meaning of "a small thread" change in different contexts?

The meaning remains consistent, referring to something minor. However, its application varies. Literally, it describes a physical thread; metaphorically, it represents a minor detail, connection, or element within a larger context.