small matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is not significant or important in a given context. Example: "I understand your concerns, but this is just a small matter that can be easily resolved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is no small matter.

The New Yorker

This was no small matter.

The New Yorker

A small matter, granted.

The New York Times - Books

"This is not a small matter".

The New York Times

As for the small matter of voters?

The New York Times

And this is no small matter.

The Guardian

Then there's the small matter of plot.

The Guardian - Music

They are small, and a small matter.

The New Yorker

To accomplish this is no small matter.

The New York Times - Science

Then there's the small matter of typing.

The New York Times - Tech

There's also the small matter of pragmatism.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small matter" when you want to downplay the importance of something without dismissing it entirely. It can soften potentially negative situations.

Common error

Avoid using "small matter" excessively in formal business or academic writing, as it may come across as dismissive or lacking in seriousness. Opt for more neutral terms like "minor issue" or "less significant concern" in these settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small matter" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It serves to characterize something as insignificant or unimportant. Ludwig confirms this is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small matter" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something of little importance. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It is frequently encountered in News & Media, where it serves to downplay the significance of events or issues. While versatile, it is best used with caution in formal contexts where a more neutral or precise term might be preferable. Remember to consider the audience and the desired tone when choosing whether to use "small matter" or a more direct alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor point

Similar to "minor detail", but more broadly applicable beyond just details.

minor detail

Focuses specifically on the lack of significance in terms of details or particulars.

trivial issue

Highlights the insignificance of the matter in question, often implying it's not worth serious consideration.

inconsequential thing

Emphasizes the lack of consequence or impact of the subject.

insignificant item

Draws attention to the minimal value or importance of the subject at hand.

negligible concern

Underscores that the matter is of such little importance that it can be safely disregarded.

trifling affair

Suggests the matter is frivolous or unimportant.

petty problem

Highlights the narrow scope and lack of real importance of the matter.

light concern

Indicates that the matter requires minimal attention or worry.

a bagatelle

Highlights the minimal value or importance of the subject at hand.

FAQs

How to use "small matter" in a sentence?

You can use "small matter" to refer to something that is not significant or important in a given context, such as "I understand your concerns, but this is just a "small matter" that can be easily resolved."

What can I say instead of "small matter"?

You can use alternatives like "minor issue", "trivial concern", or "insignificant detail" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "small matter" or "big deal"?

"Small matter" and "big deal" have opposite meanings. "Small matter" refers to something unimportant, while "big deal" refers to something significant.

What's the difference between "small matter" and "minor detail"?

While both indicate something of little importance, ""small matter"" is a more general term, while "minor detail" specifically refers to an unimportant detail.