slight variation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight variation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to indicate a small difference in something. For example, "The recipe calls for only a slight variation of the standard ingredients."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's a slight variation of the theme".

The New York Times

Whereas before, the tumors were clonal, "now we're seeing slight variation — slight chromosomal differences.

The New York Times - Science

His opening question to me was a slight variation, substituting Parkchester for Riverdale.

The New York Times

"Voting is not a slight variation on shopping," as Caplan puts it.

The New Yorker

Neither character seems to represent more than a slight variation on innumerable he-man series heroes.

The New York Times - Books

"Maybe an undertone of a slight variation of same old, same old.

The New Yorker

Both lunch and dinner menus were short and manageable, with a few dishes available (in slight variation) on both.

The New York Times

It may only be a slight variation on the old model of talent scouting, but what's wrong with that?

The Guardian

The slight variation prompts one to wonder how great this music might be if it ever got messy.

The Guardian - Music

We have recently seen the creamy offerings, with slight variation, roll past at a number of Italian restaurants.

The New York Times

This is a slight variation on a Mediterranean houmous or baba ganoush.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slight variation" to indicate a small, often subtle, difference between two or more things. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "slight variation" when the difference is actually significant or substantial. Reserve this phrase for cases where the difference is truly minor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight variation" functions as a noun phrase that describes a small difference or change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used. The adjective "slight" modifies the noun "variation", indicating the degree of difference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slight variation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a minor difference or change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its function is to provide a nuanced description, avoiding exaggeration. It's commonly found in scientific and news-related content. When using this phrase, ensure that the difference is indeed minor, and consider alternatives like "minor alteration" or "subtle difference" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor alteration

Emphasizes the small degree of change made.

small modification

Focuses on the act of making a change, but the change is small.

subtle difference

Highlights that the difference is not immediately obvious.

marginal adjustment

Indicates an adjustment that is just barely significant.

minimal change

Stresses that the change is as small as it can be.

faint deviation

Implies a departure from a standard that is barely perceptible.

negligible shift

Suggests the change is so small it's almost not worth considering.

tiny adjustment

Highlights the small size of the adjustment.

modest alteration

Indicates the alteration is moderate or limited in scope.

limited modification

Focuses on the restricted extent of the modification.

FAQs

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

You can use "slight variation" to describe a small difference. For example, "The new model features a "slight variation" in design compared to its predecessor."

What are some alternatives to "slight variation"?

Alternatives include "minor alteration", "subtle difference", or "small modification" depending on the specific context.

Is "slight variation" formal or informal?

"Slight variation" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Its neutrality makes it versatile for various contexts.

What's the difference between "slight variation" and "significant difference"?

"Slight variation" indicates a minor difference, whereas "significant difference" implies a notable and important distinction. Use "slight variation" when the change is subtle and not crucial.