one small mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one small mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a minor error or oversight in a context where the mistake is not significant. Example: "Despite the one small mistake in the report, the overall analysis was accurate and well-received."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"There's only one small mistake," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

"One small mistake from somebody, and there's a massive thing".

The New York Times - Sports

One small mistake and you have a massive wreck".

The New Yorker

There is one small mistake to mar Mr. Mahoney's smoothly knowledgeable presentation.

The New York Times - Books

Separating contenders is tough at this stage when, as Gambhir said, "One small mistake can seal the tournament".

The New York Times - Sports

One small mistake was later corrected in the final report — hardly a big enough deal to create an uproar in the governor's office.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

One small error for man is always in danger of becoming one giant mistake for humankind.

The New Yorker

It was just one, small, teeny mistake and everyone tore me to pieces!

The Guardian

One little mistake".

The New York Times - Sports

When two boats get close to each other, even a small mistake by one in plotting the other's course can cause them to collide.

The New York Times

Divorced, Carmen's life becomes lonely; she marries the seemingly shallow and apolitical Rob, immediately realising that the marriage is "a small mistake", but one that nevertheless might just surprise her by making her happy.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one small mistake" to acknowledge errors without exaggerating their impact, especially when providing feedback or offering constructive criticism.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "one small mistake". Be realistic about its impact to maintain credibility and avoid unnecessary alarm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one small mistake" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and commonly used to refer to a minor error.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

17%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one small mistake" is a commonly used phrase to describe a minor error or oversight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media and general writing. The phrase serves to acknowledge an error while often downplaying its significance. When using this phrase, consider the actual impact of the error to avoid misrepresentation. Alternatives like "minor error" or "slight oversight" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to consider the potential consequences, no matter how small the mistake might seem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor error

Focuses on the insignificance of the error itself.

a slight oversight

Highlights the inadvertent nature of the mistake.

a trivial fault

Emphasizes the lack of importance of the mistake.

a negligible slip-up

Underscores the minimal impact of the error.

a momentary lapse

Focuses on the temporary nature of the error.

a minor transgression

Highlights a minor violation of a rule or expectation.

a small imperfection

Focuses on the blemish or flaw caused by the mistake.

a venial error

Highlights that the error is easily forgiven or excused.

a forgivable mistake

Emphasizes that the mistake can be excused or pardoned.

a petty blunder

Underlines the insignificance and foolishness of the mistake.

FAQs

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

You can use "one small mistake" to indicate that a minor error was made, as in "The project was successful, despite "one small mistake" in the initial planning phase".

What phrases are similar to "one small mistake"?

Similar phrases include "minor error", "slight oversight", or "trivial fault". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "one small mistake" or "a big mistake"?

The choice depends on the magnitude of the error. Use "one small mistake" when the error is minor and "a big mistake" when the error has significant consequences.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "one small mistake"?

It's appropriate to use "one small mistake" when you want to downplay the significance of an error or when the error's impact is relatively minor. Avoid using it if the mistake had severe consequences.