by a slim difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a slim difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two things are not significantly different from each other, often in the context of competition or comparison. Example: "The election was decided by a slim difference, with only a few hundred votes separating the candidates."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it's a slim difference in yields for such disparate markets.

The New York Times

He speaks to them with friendly confidence and a level of industry knowledge that sets him apart despite the slim difference in age between he and them.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I'm flattered, but it seems rash to make such a bet on such slim differences.

The New Yorker

This seemingly slim difference is profound.

The Economist

That could make a difference, Republicans say, given that Mr. Altschuler lost to Mr. Bishop by a slim margin in the moderate district, which stretches across the eastern half of Long Island.

The New York Times

But, as it turns out, this year's polls look a little different: The biggest difference from 2010 is that, for much of the past twelve months, voters have preferred Democrats by a slim margin.

The New Yorker

That measure passed by a slim margin.

The New York Times

o Stockholder approval was by a slim margin.

Columbia University

The state law was enacted by a slim margin.

The New York Times

Vouchers were more controversial, favoured by a slim majority.

The Economist

Mr. Wellstone won by a slim margin.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the closeness of a result, consider using more common alternatives like "by a narrow margin" or "by a small difference" for better clarity.

Common error

While "slim" is acceptable, overuse in professional writing can sound less impactful. Vary your vocabulary by alternating with terms like "marginal", "slight", or "minor" to prevent repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a slim difference" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or verb phrase. It indicates how something occurred, specifically highlighting that the margin or difference was small. Based on Ludwig AI, the phrase itself is correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by a slim difference" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a small margin or difference between two things. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's relatively rare in usage. Consider using more common alternatives like "by a narrow margin" or "by a small amount" for improved clarity. This phrase is considered neutral in register, making it suitable for various contexts. If you aim to emphasize the closeness of a result, this phrase can be effective. However, be mindful of overusing "slim" in more formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by a narrow margin

Replaces "slim difference" with "narrow margin", emphasizing the smallness of the gap.

by a thin margin

Synonymous with "by a slim margin", maintaining a formal tone.

by a small margin

Substitutes "slim" with "small", offering a more common alternative.

by a slight difference

Uses "slight" instead of "slim", keeping the meaning very close.

by a narrow victory

Highlights that, after all, it was a victory

by a hair's breadth

Emphasizes the closeness of the margin using a more figurative expression.

by a whisker

Similar to "by a hair's breadth", indicating a very close call.

by a close call

Focuses on the uncertainty of the outcome.

by the skin of one's teeth

Implies barely succeeding or winning.

only just

A more succinct way of saying that something barely happened or succeeded.

FAQs

What does "by a slim difference" mean?

The phrase "by a slim difference" means that the difference between two things is very small. For example, the vote was decided by a slim difference.

What can I say instead of "by a slim difference"?

You can use alternatives like "by a narrow margin", "by a small amount", or "by a slight difference".

Is "by a slim difference" formal or informal?

The phrase "by a slim difference" is generally considered neutral in formality, suitable for both casual and professional contexts, although more common alternatives might be preferred in very formal writing.

How do I use "by a slim difference" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe situations where there's a close result. For example: "The election was won by a slim difference of only 50 votes".