small issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a minor problem or concern that is not significant in the grand scheme of things. Example: "We encountered a small issue with the software update, but it should be resolved quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is no small issue.

The New York Times - Food

There was only one small issue.

The New York Times - Sports

But it's obviously a small issue.

The New York Times

It is no small issue.

The New York Times

"It's not a small issue.

The New York Times

Variety is also a small issue.

The Guardian - Tech

This is not a small issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Especially for them, he said, "financing is no small issue".

The New York Times

"But I feel that is a small issue," he said.

The New York Times

"The small issue is cussing," Ms. Ludgood said.

The New York Times

There's a big issue and a small issue here.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "small issue", ensure the context clearly indicates that the problem or concern is indeed minor and does not overshadow larger considerations. This helps maintain clarity and prevents misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "small issue" to downplay a problem that actually has significant consequences or impact. Always accurately assess the situation to prevent misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small issue" functions as a noun phrase where "small" modifies the noun "issue". Ludwig AI confirms that it is used to identify a problem or matter of limited importance. Examples show it often precedes an explanation or dismissal of the issue's severity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Social Media

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small issue" is a commonly used phrase to describe a problem or concern of limited significance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context accurately reflects the minor nature of the issue to avoid misleading your audience. Alternatives like "minor problem" or "trivial concern" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to maintain clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Minor problem

Focuses on the problematic aspect, similar in scope.

Insignificant matter

Emphasizes the lack of importance of the subject.

Trivial concern

Highlights the unimportance of the worry.

Negligible difficulty

Indicates the easiness of resolving the difficulty.

Petty matter

Suggests the matter is insignificant and possibly irritating.

Slight snag

Implies a minor disruption or hitch.

Modest setback

Highlights the limited impact on progress.

Little hiccup

Informal way to describe a temporary, small problem.

Marginal concern

Underscores the minimal level of worry.

Inconsequential detail

Points out the unimportance of the specific element.

FAQs

What does "small issue" mean?

A "small issue" refers to a problem or concern that is not significant or important. It's often used to downplay a difficulty that is easily manageable or has limited consequences.

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

You can use "small issue" to describe a problem that is not serious, for example: "We had a "small issue" with the software, but it's now resolved."

What are some alternatives to "small issue"?

Alternatives to "small issue" include "minor problem", "trivial concern", or "insignificant matter". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "small issue"?

It is appropriate to use "small issue" when you want to communicate that a problem is not serious and does not require significant attention or resources. Be careful not to minimize a problem that is actually more significant.