a small triumph of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small triumph of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor success or achievement in a particular context, often highlighting the significance of that success despite its size. Example: "Completing the project ahead of schedule was a small triumph of teamwork and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It's a small triumph of comic invention.

The New York Times

Pairing off with this man was a small triumph of engineering.

The New York Times - Books

It is all a small triumph of good sense over tradition.

The New York Times - Sports

And at least at the first concert, on Friday evening, the order of the program represented a small triumph of musical values over marketing wimpiness.

The New York Times - Arts

A small triumph of his career was spotting a checked purse that he had designed tucked under a table at a bar in Yorkshire.

The New Yorker

The speech he delivered was no literary masterpiece (though by State of the Union standards it was downright Nabokovian), but it was a small triumph of tone and subtle theatrics.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The film is a small triumph for Nick Nolte, whose portrayal of the boy's kind, thoughtful grandfather releases Mr. Nolte from his hard-boiled straitjacket.

The New York Times

But the comet also sparked a small triumph for rationalism.

The New Yorker

Each extra piece represents a small triumph; a small precursor, of the ultimate satisfaction of popping the last piece into place.The ability to complete a crossword, sudoku or puzzle is another trait that distinguishes them from most computer games (where there is nearly always another level to master) or indeed from life itself, where every day brings a new task.

The Economist

Perhaps a small triumph in the grand sweep of things; but all triumphs are small in the grand sweep of things.

Huffington Post

It was a small triumph.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small triumph of" to acknowledge progress or success that, while significant, is limited in scope or impact. This is particularly effective in contexts where larger or more comprehensive success is expected or desired.

Common error

Avoid using "a small triumph of" when describing truly major accomplishments. It's best reserved for situations where the achievement is genuinely modest, otherwise, it can diminish the perceived impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small triumph of" functions as a noun phrase, typically followed by a noun or gerund, to describe a particular instance of modest success. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies a minor victory in a specific context. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use across various domains to highlight accomplishments that are limited in scope yet meaningful.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small triumph of" is a phrase used to describe a modest but noteworthy success within a larger context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various domains, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is relatively uncommon, it serves the important purpose of acknowledging incremental progress and celebrating achievements that, while limited in scope, still hold significance. To ensure proper usage, remember to reserve it for genuinely modest accomplishments and avoid overstating their impact. Consider using alternatives like "a minor victory for" or "a modest achievement in" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor victory for

Replaces "triumph" with "victory", suggesting a less significant win.

a modest achievement in

Substitutes "triumph" with "achievement" and "small" with "modest", softening the sense of victory.

a limited success within

Uses "success" instead of "triumph" and qualifies it as "limited", emphasizing the restricted scope of the achievement.

a slight win in

Replaces "triumph" with "win" and qualifies it as "slight", indicating a minimal level of accomplishment.

a partial accomplishment of

Emphasizes the incomplete nature of the achievement.

a qualified success regarding

The term "qualified success" means that it is not a perfect or complete success. There are some limitations or conditions associated with it.

a marginal gain in

Highlights the minimal improvement or progress made.

an incremental advance for

Suggests a gradual and slow progress.

a narrow escape within

Conveys a sense of barely avoiding failure or negative consequences.

a symbolic victory regarding

Emphasizes the victory has more significance as symbol than as a result.

FAQs

How can I use "a small triumph of" in a sentence?

You can use "a small triumph of" to describe a minor success within a larger context, for example, "Securing the contract was "a small triumph of" perseverance."

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

You can use alternatives like "a minor victory for", "a modest achievement in", or "a limited success within" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a small triumph of"?

It's appropriate to use "a small triumph of" when you want to acknowledge a positive outcome that is limited in scope or impact, but still noteworthy. Avoid it when describing major successes or breakthroughs.

What's the difference between "a small triumph of" and "a major victory"?

"A small triumph of" implies a limited success, whereas "a major victory" suggests a significant and substantial win. The choice depends on the magnitude of the achievement you're describing.