slight mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight mistake" is both correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a small error or oversight. Example: "Despite her best efforts, she made a slight mistake in her calculations which affected the final results of the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

If you make a slight mistake, the engine doesn't cancel it out.

Independent

Her only slight mistake was when she doubled an intended triple lutz.

The New York Times - Sports

A slight mistake made her lose her balance and fell off beam.

The Guardian - Sport

As a tactical move, the sturgeon showstopper may be a slight mistake, setting up unrealistic expectations.

The New York Times - Food

Looking back on it, I think that was probably one slight mistake, because we didn't want to have any debt.

Cornell University

(To place it at the end is a slight mistake. It was the centerpiece at a Berkeley, Calif., performance this month).

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

(She made a few slight mistakes in reading it).

The New York Times - Arts

The maps they generate rarely contain critical errors, although it is not unusual to find slight mistakes that in most cases shouldn't seriously impede your trip.

The New York Times - Tech

"I don't use computers at all," he said, adding that music made on hard drives "loses all character whatsoever, all these nuances, slight mistakes you realize weren't mistakes at all.

The New York Times - Arts

Slight mistakes in entering the address may take you to a "spoofer" site set up by criminals to trick you into entering your account number and password so that they can gain access to your account.

The New York Times

She will be happy to know you were able to involve your children, especially if you are patient and don't yell or be grumpy, and it might make up for any slight mistakes you make.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slight mistake", ensure the context reflects that the error is indeed minor and does not have significant consequences. This helps maintain clarity and avoid exaggeration.

Common error

Avoid using "slight mistake" to describe errors that have major repercussions. This can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility. Instead, accurately reflect the true impact of the error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight mistake" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an instance of error that is considered small or insignificant. As Ludwig AI also indicates, the phrase suggests an error of little consequence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

22%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slight mistake" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a minor error. According to Ludwig AI, it signifies a small oversight that does not significantly impact the outcome. It is most frequently used in News & Media and Wiki sources, indicating a neutral register. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure that the context accurately reflects the minor nature of the error, and to avoid using it to downplay significant issues. Alternatives like "minor error" or "small oversight" can be used for added precision in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor error

This alternative is a more direct and simple way to express a small mistake.

small oversight

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of something being overlooked rather than a deliberate error.

trivial error

This emphasizes the insignificance of the mistake.

inconsequential blunder

This suggests the mistake had no real impact or consequence.

negligible slip-up

This indicates the mistake was barely noticeable or important.

forgivable error

This frames the mistake as understandable and easily forgiven.

minor imperfection

This highlights that the mistake is a flaw in something otherwise good.

small miscalculation

This specifically refers to an error in calculation or planning.

tiny fault

This emphasizes the minimal nature of the mistake, portraying it as a minor flaw.

passing lapse

This suggests a momentary error in judgment or attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "slight mistake" to describe a minor error or oversight. For example, "He made a "slight mistake" in the calculation, but it didn't affect the final result."

What are some alternatives to "slight mistake"?

Alternatives include "minor error", "small oversight", or "trivial error" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "slight mistake" in formal writing?

Yes, "slight mistake" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, consider alternatives like "minor error" for added precision.

What's the difference between "slight mistake" and "major error"?

"Slight mistake" refers to a small, inconsequential error, while "major error" implies a significant mistake with serious consequences. The choice depends on the severity of the error you're describing.