slight knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minimal or limited understanding of a subject or topic. Example: "Although she has only a slight knowledge of the subject, she is eager to learn more."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It turned out that she herself had some slight knowledge of the sax player.

The New Yorker

Archives|ASSAILS NOVICES IN WELFARE WORK; Dr. C.P. Emerson Says Reformers With Slight Knowledge of Mental Hygiene Are Menace.

The New York Times

ASSAILS NOVICES IN WELFARE WORK; Dr. C.P. Emerson Says Reformers With Slight Knowledge of Mental Hygiene Are Menace.

The New York Times

Admittedly having slight knowledge of economics, Sir Alec as prime minister was unable to improve the deteriorating British balance-of-payments situation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Those who kill animals in the course of their working day may quickly become habituated to it, and to dismiss this effect as mere desensitization effectively discounts great knowledge of animal death in favor of slight knowledge.

The New Yorker

Even slight knowledge – "talking points" type of knowledge – of every aspect of the design of your specific type of item will go a very long way.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Lawyers seeking to get Mr Piëch to admit the slightest knowledge of the shenanigans were disappointed.

The Economist

The defenders simply hung on where they could, in almost total darkness, without the slightest knowledge of ground or buildings.

The Guardian - Opinion

Anybody with the slightest knowledge of cinema knows about Bergman's angst-ridden psychodramas expressing a Godless, loveless universe.

The Guardian - Film

He said anyone with the slightest knowledge of education would have voted supported Proposition 227 -- as he did.

The New York Times

Specifically, they argue that the Board had only the slightest knowledge of Roth's negotiations with AXA.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slight knowledge", specify the area of knowledge to provide context and clarity. For example, "slight knowledge of coding" is more informative than "slight knowledge."

Common error

Avoid overstating the extent of "slight knowledge". It indicates a basic understanding, not proficiency. Do not use it to describe advanced skills or expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight knowledge" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "slight" modifies the noun "knowledge". It is used to indicate a limited or basic level of understanding about a particular subject, skill, or area of expertise. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

22%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slight knowledge" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a basic or limited understanding of a particular subject. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for use in various contexts. While it appears most frequently in news and media sources, it is also present in scientific and academic writing. When using "slight knowledge", remember to provide specific context about the area of knowledge and avoid overstating expertise. Alternatives such as "limited understanding" or "basic familiarity" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited understanding

Focuses on comprehension being restricted, rather than the amount of information known.

basic familiarity

Suggests a surface-level understanding, implying initial exposure rather than deep expertise.

rudimentary grasp

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the understanding, highlighting a basic level of competence.

superficial awareness

Highlights the lack of depth in the understanding, indicating a surface-level perception.

passing acquaintance

Implies a casual and brief exposure to the subject matter, suggesting minimal interaction or study.

minimal expertise

Focuses on the lack of skill or proficiency in a particular area, highlighting the limited practical ability.

incipient awareness

Suggests a beginning stage of understanding, implying that knowledge is just starting to develop.

cursory knowledge

Highlights the brief and rapid nature of gaining knowledge, suggesting a quick overview rather than thorough study.

token understanding

Implies a minimal or symbolic level of understanding, suggesting that knowledge is present in name only.

inadequate comprehension

Emphasizes the insufficiency of understanding, highlighting a lack of the necessary knowledge to fully grasp a subject.

FAQs

How can I use "slight knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "slight knowledge" to describe a limited understanding of a subject. For example: "Although he had only a "slight knowledge" of French, he attempted to order dinner in Paris."

What can I say instead of "slight knowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "basic familiarity", "limited understanding", or "rudimentary grasp depending on the context.

Is it better to say "slight knowledge" or "little knowledge"?

Both "slight knowledge" and "little knowledge" indicate a limited understanding, but "slight knowledge" implies a somewhat more positive connotation than "little knowledge", suggesting at least some minimal acquaintance with the subject. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "slight knowledge" differ from "no knowledge"?

"Slight knowledge" implies some minimal understanding or awareness, whereas "no knowledge" indicates a complete lack of understanding or awareness. Having a "slight knowledge" means you know at least something about a topic; having no knowledge means you know nothing at all.