minor detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minor detail" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is not significant or important in the context of a larger issue or discussion. Example: "While the report was well-researched, there was a minor detail that needed correction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"That's not a minor detail.

The New York Times

There was only one minor detail left.

The New York Times - Sports

The task itself is a minor detail.

The New York Times

This is a minor detail for him.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's not a minor detail," she said.

The New York Times

But for Pam that was a minor detail.

The Guardian - Film

A complete list of employees is no minor detail.

The New York Times

For many Americans, however, that may be a minor detail.

The Guardian - Sport

Cambridge won, but that seemed like a minor detail.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Very subtle minor detailing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But these are minor details.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "minor detail" to downplay the importance of a piece of information. This can help focus the reader's attention on more significant aspects of the topic. For instance, 'While the budget had a few discrepancies, they were just a "minor detail" compared to the overall success of the project.'

Common error

Avoid using "minor detail" when the detail actually has significant implications. Misusing it can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility. Assess the true importance of the detail before labeling it as minor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor detail" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies an element as being of little importance. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Sport

12%

Film

4%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minor detail" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate something of little importance. According to Ludwig, it's widely used across varied contexts, especially in News & Media. While the phrase is versatile, ensure that the detail is genuinely minor to avoid misleading your audience. Alternatives include "insignificant point" and "small matter". This phrase effectively directs focus away from less relevant aspects, enhancing clarity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insignificant point

Focuses on the lack of importance of the detail.

triviality

Highlights the lack of seriousness or value.

small matter

Emphasizes the reduced scale of the issue.

immaterial aspect

Indicates that the aspect does not significantly affect the outcome.

inconsequential element

Stresses the lack of consequence associated with the element.

secondary consideration

Positions the detail as less important than other factors.

negligible factor

Suggests the factor is so small it can be ignored.

technicality

Implies the detail is a narrow, often legalistic point.

side issue

Indicates the detail is tangential to the main topic.

mere formality

Suggests the detail is required but has little real impact.

FAQs

How can I use "minor detail" in a sentence?

You can use "minor detail" to refer to something that is not very important in the context of a larger issue. For example, "The report was excellent, with only one "minor detail" needing correction."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "minor detail"?

You can use alternatives like "insignificant point", "small matter", or "triviality" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "minor detail" in formal writing?

Yes, "minor detail" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a commonly used and well-understood phrase. Its use is widespread in news articles and academic papers. Ludwig AI confirms this.

What is the difference between "minor detail" and "key aspect"?

"Minor detail" refers to something unimportant, while "key aspect" refers to something essential. The two phrases are near opposites, so be sure you choose the right one to convey your intended meaning.