slight problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a minor issue, difficulty, or challenge. For example, "I encountered a slight problem when I tried to assemble the furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Slight problem.

The New York Times - Books

There's a slight problem here.

The Washington Post

Except for one slight problem.

The New York Times

This creates a slight problem.

The Guardian

Which presents a slight problem.

The Guardian

There was one slight problem.

The New York Times - Sports

But there was a slight problem.

The New York Times

Now there's a slight problem here.

Yale University

But there is a slight problem.

University of California, Berkeley

There is, though, one slight problem.

The New York Times

There was a slight problem, however.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slight problem", ensure the context clarifies that the issue is indeed minor and doesn't significantly impact the overall situation. Overstating the problem can undermine your credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "slight problem" when the issue is actually significant or complex. This can mislead your audience and downplay the real impact of the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight problem" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or appositive. It serves to identify or describe an issue that is not considered major. Ludwig confirms this with numerous examples across various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slight problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a minor issue or difficulty. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's important to ensure that the problem is indeed minor to avoid miscommunication. Consider alternatives like "minor issue" or "small snag" for more formal or nuanced situations. Remember to avoid exaggerating the severity when using this phrase to maintain credibility. Overall, "slight problem" is a versatile and useful expression for acknowledging small challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor issue

Focuses on the issue being small or insignificant.

small snag

Implies a small, unexpected difficulty.

trivial difficulty

Highlights the unimportance of the problem.

inconsequential setback

Emphasizes the lack of significant impact.

modest challenge

Presents the problem as a test of one's abilities, but on a small scale.

insignificant complication

Stresses that the complication does not change the overall outcome.

petite hurdle

Figuratively describes the problem as an obstacle that is not difficult to overcome.

technicality

Focuses on the formal or superficial aspect of the problem.

glitch

Refers to a sudden, usually temporary malfunction or error.

hiccup

Indicates a brief and minor interruption.

FAQs

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

You can use "slight problem" to introduce a minor issue or difficulty, such as, "There's a slight problem with the design; the colors are clashing."

What can I say instead of "slight problem"?

You can use alternatives like "minor issue", "small snag", or "trivial difficulty" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "slight problem" in formal writing?

While "slight problem" is generally acceptable, in very formal contexts, consider using more precise language, such as "minor issue" or "inconsequential setback".

What's the difference between "slight problem" and "serious problem"?

"Slight problem" indicates a minor issue that can be easily resolved, while "serious problem" refers to a significant issue that requires substantial attention and resources to address.