minor point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minor point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small or less significant detail in a discussion or argument. Example: "While the overall argument is strong, I would like to address a minor point regarding the data presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Minor point.

The Guardian

This is no minor point.

The New York Times

But it's a minor point.

The New Yorker

This might seem a minor point.

The New York Times - Books

But this is a minor point.

The New York Times - Books

This may sound like a minor point.

The New York Times

Andrew Quigley, Cohasset, Mass.: One minor point.

The New York Times

The timing of it is mostly a minor point.

The New York Times

However, I was troubled by one minor point.

The New York Times

Just a minor point, but with major implications.

University of California, Berkeley

I'll start with a minor point: the man, a Bolivian, was not an "illegal immigrant".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a "minor point", consider softening the statement with phrases like "This may seem like a minor point, but..." to signal its relevance despite its apparent insignificance.

Common error

Avoid dedicating excessive time or attention to a "minor point". Ensure that it does not overshadow more critical aspects of your writing or conversation. Focus on keeping the relative importance proportionate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI states that it refers to a small or less significant detail, often used to acknowledge a detail without derailing the main argument.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

20%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minor point" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that indicates a small or less significant detail within a broader context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to acknowledge a detail without giving it undue importance, making it versatile across various writing styles. Predominantly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, this phrase is best used to keep discussions focused while addressing relevant but non-essential information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insignificant detail

Emphasizes the lack of importance of the detail.

trivial matter

Highlights the unimportance or pettiness of the issue.

small detail

Focuses on the size or scope of the detail.

unimportant item

Stresses the lack of significance of the item.

negligible aspect

Implies that the aspect is so small it can be disregarded.

slight concern

Downplays the level of worry or apprehension.

peripheral issue

Suggests the issue is not central or essential.

secondary consideration

Indicates the point is less important than other factors.

immaterial element

Focuses on the irrelevance of the element.

a moot point

Suggests that the issue is no longer relevant or practical.

FAQs

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

You can use "minor point" to introduce a detail that is not crucial to the main argument. For example, "That's a "minor point", but it's worth mentioning."

What's a good alternative to "minor point"?

Alternatives include "insignificant detail", "trivial matter", or "small detail", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "minor point"?

Use "minor point" when you want to acknowledge a detail without giving it undue importance. It's suitable when the detail is relevant but not essential to the overall message.

Is "minor point" the same as "moot point"?

No, a "minor point" is a small detail, while a "moot point" is an issue that is no longer relevant or practical. They have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.