slight thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something minor or not significant in a particular context. Example: "I only have a slight thing to mention about the report before we finalize it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

There's only one slight thing I'm worrying about.

The Guardian - Travel

"You might say one slight thing, find yourself misinterpreted and suddenly you're in trouble.

The Guardian - Sport

He's a slight thing when in the stalls, and allows himself to be kissed for the camera.

The Guardian - Sport

How can we ascend to higher ground when such a grievous injustice against a Jewish family and the Jewish community is dismissed as a slight thing?

The New York Times

"For every slight thing, he would beat us," Florence Adok recounted of her husband, a captain, who selected her and raped her when she was 12.

The New York Times

Pinero's comedy is a slight thing, though it has a real theme, one which often recurred in his plays (some 60 of them).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"But now the slightest little thing triggers it, whether it's going through a subway tunnel or someone dropping something on a train.

The New York Times

"The slightest little thing that maybe normally would not have bothered him would be very upsetting".

Huffington Post

I took that to be her body's sense memory of something that was so horrible that the slightest little thing could trigger it.

Vice

Manager: … I had panic disorder, for example, but I learned how to handle that myself … Partner: He became angry for the slightest little thing … He was angry with the kids … I didn't recognize his behavior" An example of toughness towards subordinates was not offering them support when they talked about having problems during times of intense media focus involving themselves.

BMC Health Services Research

"They weren't slight little things," said Mason, who joined the Jets in August after spending the last six seasons in Baltimore.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slight thing" to downplay the importance of something you're mentioning, particularly when you want to avoid alarming or concerning your audience. For example: "There's a "slight thing" we need to adjust in the budget, but it won't impact overall goals."

Common error

Avoid using "slight thing" excessively in formal or professional writing where precision and directness are valued. Opt for more specific terms like "minor adjustment" or "small issue" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies something as being of little importance or significance. Ludwig AI examples show it used to downplay concerns or introduce minor issues.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slight thing" is a common noun phrase used to describe something as minor or insignificant. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and shows its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While appropriate for general communication, it should be used cautiously in formal settings where more precise language is preferred. Alternatives such as "minor detail" or "small matter" can be used to maintain professionalism. Understanding the nuances of its usage ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor detail

Focuses on the smallness and unimportance of a specific piece of information.

small matter

Emphasizes the lack of consequence or importance of an issue.

triviality

Highlights the insignificant nature of something, often implying it's not worth attention.

inconsequentiality

Stresses the lack of impact or importance of something.

insignificant detail

Combines the notions of smallness and lack of importance.

minor point

Highlights that is not fundamental or essential.

trifling matter

Suggests that is not worth of consideration.

petty issue

Emphasizes the smallness and often the annoyance associated with the matter.

negligible concern

Indicates something is so small that it can be safely ignored.

passing fancy

Focuses on a fleeting or temporary interest in something.

FAQs

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

You can use "slight thing" to refer to something that is small or not very important. For example: "There's just one "minor detail" to consider." or "It's just a "small matter", nothing to worry about."

What are some alternatives to saying "slight thing"?

Alternatives include "minor detail", "small matter", "triviality", or "minor point". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "slight thing" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to downplay the significance of something. However, avoid using it in situations where precision and formality are essential, as it can sound vague or dismissive. Consider using "minor adjustment" or "small issue" in formal context.

What is the difference between "slight thing" and "the slightest thing"?

"Slight thing" refers to something that is generally minor or insignificant. "The slightest thing", on the other hand, refers to the smallest possible thing, often implying that even a very small trigger can cause a significant reaction. For example: "The "slightest thing" could set them off"