scrap of evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrap of evidence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small or insignificant piece of evidence in a discussion or argument. Example: "Despite the lack of substantial proof, the detective found a scrap of evidence that could lead to a breakthrough in the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

They need only a scrap of evidence and – gotcha!

The Guardian - Opinion

However, there is not the slightest scrap of evidence that Berlin will take any notice.

The Guardian - Business

Of course, in 1522 there was not a scrap of evidence against him.

The New Yorker

Present him with a scrap of evidence and he arrives at a solution.

The New Yorker

Mr. Bruns had every scrap of evidence he needed, including screen grabs.

The New York Times

Mr Maduro has produced not a scrap of evidence for these claims.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

But scraps of evidence suggest otherwise.

The New Yorker

Indeed, I will be, too.' " This version is reinforced by several arresting scraps of evidence.

The New Yorker

Scraps of evidence, however flimsy and conjectural, are marshaled in its favor.

The New York Times - Books

One of the only scraps of evidence left behind was CCTV footage of the women talking in a shopping mall.

The Guardian

When family members arrive bearing photographs or other scraps of evidence, Khan will exhume bodies for them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "scrap of evidence", ensure that the context clearly indicates the significance, or lack thereof, of this small piece of evidence in the broader argument or investigation. This helps the reader understand its importance within the larger picture.

Common error

Avoid using "scrap of evidence" when the available evidence is actually substantial. Misrepresenting a minor piece of evidence as significant can undermine the credibility of your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrap of evidence" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a small or insignificant piece of information that may be relevant to a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scrap of evidence" is a common noun phrase used to describe a small or insignificant piece of evidence. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. It is typically employed to highlight minimal evidence or suggest a lack of substantial support for an argument. While grammatically sound, it's crucial to use the phrase appropriately, avoiding overstatement of its importance. Related phrases include "iota of proof" and "shred of substantiation", offering alternative ways to express a similar idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

iota of proof

Substitutes "scrap" with "iota" emphasizing a very small amount and replaces "evidence" with "proof".

shred of substantiation

Replaces "scrap" with "shred" and "evidence" with "substantiation", making it slightly more formal.

fragment of confirmation

Emphasizes the broken or incomplete nature of the evidence.

hint of verification

Implies a less direct form of evidence, focusing on verification rather than direct proof.

trace of indication

Suggests a minimal amount of evidence, merely indicating something might be true.

speck of validation

Conveys an extremely small and potentially insignificant amount of supporting information.

particle of attestation

A more formal alternative suggesting an extremely minute piece of evidence serving as attestation.

iota of data

Substitutes "evidence" with a more neutral term, "data", useful in technical or scientific contexts.

smidgen of proof

Uses an informal term, "smidgen", to emphasize the small quantity of evidence.

element of corroboration

Replaces "evidence" with "corroboration", emphasizing the aspect of supporting or confirming a theory.

FAQs

How can I use "scrap of evidence" in a sentence?

You can use "scrap of evidence" to describe a small, often overlooked piece of information that might be useful. For example: "The detective found a "scrap of evidence" at the crime scene that ultimately helped solve the case."

What can I say instead of "scrap of evidence"?

You can use alternatives like "iota of proof", "shred of substantiation", or "fragment of confirmation" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "not a scrap of evidence"?

Yes, "not a scrap of evidence" is a common and correct way to emphasize the complete absence of evidence. For example: "There was "not a scrap of evidence" to support the accusations."

What's the difference between "scrap of evidence" and "piece of evidence"?

"Scrap of evidence" implies a small or insignificant piece of evidence, whereas "piece of evidence" is a more neutral term that doesn't necessarily indicate size or importance.