one small catch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one small catch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a minor condition or limitation that may affect a situation or offer. Example: "I would love to lend you my car for the weekend, but there's one small catch: you need to fill up the gas tank before returning it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

There's one small catch, though – it will only hover on special surfaces, because it uses magnets, just like a maglev (magnetic levitation) train.

The Guardian - Tech

"What keeps me from just running off with the iPhone?" There is, of course, at least one small catch: they put a $700 hold on your credit card until the device is returned and, if you beat the thing up, they'll charge you $100.

TechCrunch

With one small catch.

The New York Times

But there's one small catch: I can't breathe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The one small catch is that someone will have had to unlock the device the proper way once since power up.

TechCrunch

There's just one small catch.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

There was just one small catch--only a few moths turned up for the party.

Vice

But already one small company caught up in the mutual fund scandal is being shut.

The New York Times

One small study caught my eye.

The New York Times

Yet as the recession deepens, one small group could actually catch a break: the richest Americans, who are likely to see a proposed tax increase postponed.

The New York Times

He had caught just one small fish in an hour, but he said 20 years ago it would have been six or seven.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one small catch" to introduce a minor condition or limitation after presenting an otherwise positive situation. This helps manage expectations and maintain transparency.

Common error

Avoid using "one small catch" when the condition is significant or undermines the primary benefit. A disproportionately large 'catch' can mislead or frustrate the audience. Use other sentence/sentences that can show to the audience it's not a little problem after all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one small catch" functions as an idiomatic expression used to introduce a minor condition, limitation, or unexpected element. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase in English. It serves to signal that while the overall situation might seem positive, there's a specific detail to consider.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one small catch" is a commonly used phrase to introduce a minor condition or limitation. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, though more formal situations may benefit from using professional alternatives. The expression functions to manage expectations and promote transparency. While frequently found in News & Media, its usage extends to science and general communication. Knowing when and how to use "one small catch" can improve communication by offering clarity and building trust with the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one minor drawback

Emphasizes the slightly negative aspect of the catch being a drawback.

one slight disadvantage

Highlights the catch as a potential disadvantage, though not a major one.

one little condition

Focuses on the 'catch' as a condition that needs to be met.

one tiny limitation

Stresses the limited impact or scope of the 'catch'.

a minor detail, though

Highlights the catch as a detail needing consideration.

the only caveat is

Introduces the catch with the word 'caveat', implying a warning or condition.

there's a slight hitch

Uses 'hitch' to denote a small problem or obstacle.

but there's a twist

Suggests the catch is an unexpected turn of events.

the snag is that

Uses 'snag' implying a small difficulty or problem.

with a slight reservation

Indicates a hesitant agreement due to the catch.

FAQs

How can I use "one small catch" in a sentence?

Use "one small catch" to introduce a minor condition or limitation that applies to an otherwise appealing situation. For example, "The offer sounds great, but there's "one small catch": you have to sign a two-year contract".

What are some alternatives to "one small catch"?

You can use alternatives like "one minor drawback", "one slight disadvantage", or "one little condition" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "one small catch" in formal writing?

While "one small catch" is acceptable, in formal writing, consider more professional alternatives like "one minor drawback" or "the only caveat is" for a more polished tone.

What's the difference between "one small catch" and "the only problem is"?

"One small catch" implies a minor condition or limitation, while "the only problem is" suggests a more significant obstacle or issue. "One small catch" is less severe and often used when the overall situation is still favorable despite the condition.