slight modification

USAGE SUMMARY

"slight modification" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when describing a change that is minor or insignificant. For example, "We made a slight modification to the product design."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another engineer described a slight modification to a popular application.

The New York Times - Tech

Goldman's dictum may need a slight modification: Nobody knows anything — except how to open big.

The New Yorker

Is there no vision other than a slight modification of what the private landowners want?

The Guardian

A line-up of Stormtroopers appeared, with some slight modification to their uniforms.

The Guardian - Film

As luck would have it, he has recently completed a novel that, with slight modification, will fit the bill.

The New Yorker

At the same time, the judge said a slight modification in the Miranda warnings, where necessary, was acceptable.

The New York Times

Sforzato (sfz) means a sudden sharp accent, and sforzando (sf ), a slight modification of this.

Encyclopedia Britannica

but with slight modification.

Chemistry Central Journal

A slight modification in the primer design is suggested.

International Journal of Infectious Diseases

They can be quickly reused after slight modification.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

This requires a slight modification to the governing equations.

Mathematics-in-Industry Case Studies

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slight modification" when you want to downplay the extent of the change being made. It suggests that the original form remains largely intact.

Common error

Avoid using "slight modification" if the change significantly alters the original item or process. Instead, opt for terms that accurately reflect the degree of change, such as "significant alteration" or "major revision."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight modification" typically functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a preposition (e.g., "with slight modification") or as a subject complement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

24%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Unknown/unmatched sources

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slight modification" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a minor adjustment or change. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the modification genuinely reflects a small change to avoid misrepresenting the impact. Consider alternatives like "minor adjustment" or "subtle change" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor adjustment

Emphasizes the small degree of change.

small alteration

Highlights that the change is limited in scope or impact.

subtle change

Focuses on the imperceptible or delicate nature of the change.

modest revision

Indicates a limited correction or improvement.

minor amendment

Refers to a small formal change or addition.

marginal adjustment

Highlights the change as being at the edge of significance.

minimal alteration

Stresses the extremely small nature of the change.

gentle modification

Implies a delicate and non-disruptive change.

limited revision

Signifies that the scope of the revision is constrained.

superficial adjustment

Indicates that the change is only on the surface and not fundamental.

FAQs

How to use "slight modification" in a sentence?

You can use "slight modification" to describe a minor adjustment or change to something. For instance, "We made a slight modification to the design to improve its functionality".

What can I say instead of "slight modification"?

You can use alternatives like "minor adjustment", "small alteration", or "subtle change" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "slight modification" or "slight change"?

Both "slight modification" and "slight change" are correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey, with "modification" implying a more deliberate or technical adjustment.

What's the difference between "slight modification" and "major overhaul"?

"Slight modification" indicates a minor change, while "major overhaul" suggests a significant and extensive reconstruction or revision. Use "slight modification" when the core structure or function remains largely the same.