small chore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small chore" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a minor or simple task that needs to be done, often in the context of household or routine activities. Example: "I have a small chore to complete before I can relax for the evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

She would have written sooner, she said, but, well, there was the small chore of moving.

The New York Times

Though the feat went largely unrecognized in the aftermath of their Game 5 victory, this was no small chore.

The New York Times - Sports

"That was just a small chore," he says, nodding back to the other side of the river.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Making the broth and dumplings for Christmas borscht, which remains on the menu through January, is no small chore.

The New York Times

The point is not the clean kitchen; the point is that, in the long run, this small chore they are asked to do benefits their relationship.

The New York Times

Even if not every CD you own is present in one of these databases, typing in the details for every hundredth one or so is a small chore, made easier by knowing that you are helping every other owner.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

They did small chores, changed light bulbs, washed clothes.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even small chores, like emptying the dishwasher, "give her a sense of purpose and mission," Ms. Sheridan said.

The New York Times

At the Group Theatre's summer camp, he mostly did the volunteer small chores that kept the community going.

The Guardian - Film

David Kramer, whose father, Gdal, founded Kramer's Hardware around 1930, started giving George small chores around the shop — moving the stock, taking out the garbage.

The New York Times

He started doing small chores for the AirLine Pilots Association and then handling grievances, and the union discovered that he was a badger.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "small chore". In formal settings, opting for alternatives like "minor task" or "simple duty" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "small chore" to describe tasks that are actually complex or time-consuming. This can mislead or create a sense of dismissiveness, potentially undermining the importance of the work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small chore" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "chore". It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a minor task or duty that needs to be completed. Ludwig confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small chore" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase referring to a minor or simple task. Ludwig confirms its accuracy and relevance. While commonly found in news, media, and wiki sources, more formal settings may benefit from alternatives like "minor task" or "simple duty". Remember to provide context when describing the chore, and avoid overstating its simplicity. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and appropriately use "small chore" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor task

Replaces "chore" with "task", emphasizing the simplicity of the work.

simple task

Uses "simple" to describe the task, highlighting its ease.

easy job

Replaces "chore" with "job", suggesting a light and uncomplicated activity.

light task

Uses "light" to describe the task, emphasizing its minimal effort.

trivial duty

Replaces both words to highlight that the responsibility is of little importance.

minor duty

Replaces "chore" with "duty", suggesting a simple obligation or responsibility.

insignificant task

Highlights the task's lack of importance or consequence.

petite task

Uses a French-derived term to add a touch of elegance, while maintaining the idea of a very manageable task.

small responsibility

Shifts the focus slightly to the aspect of accountability, while keeping the task minimal.

minor inconvenience

Focuses on the slight bother or disruption caused by the task, rather than the task itself.

FAQs

How can I use "small chore" in a sentence?

You can use "small chore" to describe a minor or simple task that needs to be done, such as "I have a "small chore" to complete before I can relax" or "Cleaning my desk is a "small chore" I do every Friday".

What are some alternatives to "small chore"?

Alternatives to "small chore" include phrases like "minor task", "simple duty", or "easy job", depending on the context and the level of formality required.

Is "small chore" appropriate for formal writing?

While "small chore" is grammatically correct, it might be more suitable for informal or casual contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "minor task" or "routine duty" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between a "small chore" and a "big chore"?

A "small chore" refers to a task that requires minimal time and effort, whereas a "big chore" implies a task that is more complex, time-consuming, and demanding. The scale of effort and the perceived burden differentiate the two.