slight remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "slight remark" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, it refers to comments that are almost unnoticeable or of a minor nature. For example, "After their conversation, Jane made a slight remark about the dress her friend was wearing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Obviously, he is a major conductor — in short, life is unfair!" It's true, that slight remark about being "in shape".

The New York Times - Arts

It's true, that slight remark about being "in shape". Mr. Barenboim, his seemingly effortless virtuosity aside, drops a few notes sometimes, having always so many of them to keep in mind at once.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

His English retained a Dracula-tinged accent that made his slightest remark sound oracular.

The New Yorker

When confronted with such a dearth of diversity, it's completely normal to become hyper-aware of any racial transgression or discrimination, down to the slightest remark.

Vice

It was difficult for me to share some of the more painful posts that made me cry but did not elicit the slightest remark from others.

Huffington Post

Accordingly, they are hurt easily by the slightest remark of others, are hyper-self-conscious and self-absorbed, and are frequently upset that others don't recognize their brilliance.

Huffington Post

And I have not heard people make slighting remarks about others, not even as a joke.

The New Yorker

She was sensitive to slighting remarks about women in business, and she found one board member deliberately insensitive.

Harvard Business Review

Some citizens feel "insulted" at the slightest critical remark about the state, government or our ancestors.

The Guardian - Books

The French have also com plained lately about the slight ing remarks being made by Henry Kissinger, President Nixon's chief foreign policy ad viser.

The New York Times

There are those who celebrate his habit of speaking his mind, saying that in an age when everyone is a potential victim, when even the slightest impolitic remark seems to require an over-the-top, self-flagellating apology, having a proud, all-purpose offender at the top of the royal food chain is refreshing and inspiring.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slight remark" when you want to downplay the significance of a comment or statement, suggesting it's not particularly important or controversial. It adds nuance by implying the remark was understated or subtle.

Common error

Avoid using "slight remark" to describe a statement that had significant impact or caused considerable offense. This can create a disconnect between your description and the actual effect of the words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight remark" functions as a noun phrase, where "slight" modifies the noun "remark". According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct. It typically acts as a subject or object within a sentence, describing a comment of little significance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slight remark" is a noun phrase used to describe a comment or statement of little significance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although its frequency is rare. It serves to downplay the importance of a remark. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral tone. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended message of understatement and subtlety, as overemphasizing the comment can lead to misinterpretation. Consider alternatives such as "minor comment" or "casual comment" to further refine the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor comment

Replaces "remark" with a synonym emphasizing the small significance of the statement.

small observation

Emphasizes the act of noticing something subtly rather than making a formal comment.

brief statement

Focuses on the concise nature of the remark.

casual comment

Highlights the informal and relaxed nature of the remark.

passing mention

Suggests the remark was made quickly and without much emphasis.

fleeting comment

Indicates the remark was brief and quickly forgotten.

subtle observation

Emphasizes the understated or delicate nature of the remark.

insignificant comment

Highlights the lack of importance attached to the remark.

minor pronouncement

Implies a slightly more formal setting while still maintaining a sense of small significance.

small utterance

Focuses on the act of speaking something small.

FAQs

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

You can use "slight remark" to describe a comment that is subtle, almost unnoticeable, or not intended to be taken seriously. For instance, "She dismissed his concerns with a "slight remark" about his inexperience".

What are some alternatives to "slight remark"?

Alternatives include "minor comment", "casual comment", or "passing mention", depending on the context and the level of formality you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "slight remark" can be used in formal writing, especially when you need to convey that a statement was understated or not particularly significant. However, consider the overall tone and choose the most precise phrasing for your context.

What is the difference between a "slight remark" and a "pointed comment"?

A "slight remark" suggests subtlety and minimal impact, while a "pointed comment" implies a direct and often critical observation. The former is gentle; the latter is intentionally sharp. The difference lies in the intention and perceived impact of the words.