a small worry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small worry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor concern or anxiety about something. Example: "I have a small worry about the upcoming presentation, but I believe I will manage it well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

A flooded market might affect the paintings' future value — not a small worry when they can cost as much as $3.4 million.

The New York Times - Arts

But that's a small worry, like buying a MetroCard for the subway, because now, for the first time in a long while, both of them have regular jobs.

The New York Times

"I go from feeling sick about this – and having a small worry that this could all unravel to the point where the PM ends up having to resign – to thinking this is OK".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Next to the Woodrow is a small, worrying sculpture by the late Lucia Nogueira, a polished Coke can connected to a length of rubber tubing.

The Guardian - Arts

And ever since I've entered my adult life, I've always had a small knot in my chest every time I've done anything that can be compared; a small worrying reminder that I'm not the best at whatever it is.

TechCrunch

The Internet's role in the spread of sexually transmitted diseases is still a relatively small worry for health officials, Dr. Valdiserri said, noting that many people who were at risk could not even afford a computer.

The New York Times - Tech

To help you let go of any small worries you may have post-split, we've assembled seven of our favorite quotes on the uselessness of worrying.

Huffington Post

But it is a position to rapidly expand its supply, no small worry given that it has long sought to make money by exporting missiles.

The New York Times

It is no small worry.

The New York Times

"We look at each other and say, 'What's left to do?' " It's no small worry.

The New York Times

The possibility of GM organisms escaping and invading wild populations is no small worry.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small worry" to acknowledge a minor concern without exaggerating its importance. This can help maintain a balanced and realistic perspective in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a small worry" when the situation warrants a stronger expression of concern. Assess whether the worry is truly minor or if it requires more serious attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small worry" functions as a noun phrase that describes a minor concern or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples, where it is used to express a limited degree of apprehension.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small worry" is a noun phrase used to express a minor concern or anxiety. Ludwig AI highlights the phrase's correct grammatical status and its prevalence in news and media sources. While alternatives such as ""a minor concern"" or ""a slight anxiety"" may offer subtle differences in tone, "a small worry" is a versatile choice for acknowledging a concern without overstating its significance. When writing, it is important to accurately evaluate the seriousness of the situation at hand, and not use this phrase in place of more appropriate turns of phrase when a more serious or direct tone is necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor concern

Replaces "worry" with a more formal term, "concern", suggesting a slightly more detached perspective.

a slight anxiety

Substitutes "worry" with "anxiety", which may imply a slightly elevated level of unease.

a trivial concern

Replaces "small" with "trivial", indicating the concern is of little importance.

a passing concern

Emphasizes the fleeting nature of the worry, suggesting it's not long-lasting.

a nagging doubt

Highlights the persistent and slightly bothersome aspect of the worry.

a fleeting unease

Conveys a temporary feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

a touch of apprehension

Indicates a mild sense of fear or anxiety about the future.

a grain of salt

Implies a need to not take something seriously or to view it with skepticism.

an insignificant fear

Highlights how the fear is small and insignificant.

a petty preoccupation

Suggests that someone is too concerned with insignificant matters, implying it's not a genuine worry.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small worry" to express a minor concern or anxiety, such as, "I have "a small worry" about the upcoming exam, but I'm confident I'll do well".

What are some alternatives to "a small worry"?

Some alternatives to "a small worry" include "a minor concern", "a slight anxiety", or "a passing concern". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "a small worry"?

Yes, it would be inappropriate to use "a small worry" if the situation warrants a more serious and emphatic expression of concern, in which case using something like "grave concern" may be a more appropriate turn of phrase.

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

"A small worry" refers to a minor concern, while "a big worry" indicates a significant source of anxiety or stress. The choice between them depends on the magnitude of the concern.