small modification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small modification" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a minor change or adjustment made to something, such as a document, design, or plan. Example: "After reviewing the report, I realized that a small modification was needed to clarify the data presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At issue is a seemingly small modification to the way the government decides how much students should pay for college.

The New York Times

With a small modification, the same is true in general relativity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It may sound like a small modification but it completely changes the way you play on defence.

Independent

Lennon's sentences are often diptychs, as well, exhibiting some image or incident twice, with only a small modification of effect.

The New York Times - Books

In other words, for heavy communicators, the one small modification Apple has made to the rules has changed the game completely.

The New York Times

A small modification of these models allows us to model a softer informational attitude.

SEP

Such small modification alone, however, already complicates the analysis substantially [11, 33].

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

To prove this point, we test a small modification of the algorithm.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

After heat treatment, a small modification was observed due to the presence of anatase nanocrystallites.

International Nano Letters

However, this requires only a small modification of the proof in [1].

Boundary Value Problems

CSNPs were prepared based on the ionotropic gelation method [22] with a small modification.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "small modification", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being modified and why. This will enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "small modification" when the change is actually significant. Overstating the modification's size can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small modification" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" is an adjective modifying the noun "modification". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It typically serves to specify the extent of a change or adjustment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small modification" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a minor change or adjustment. According to Ludwig AI, it's perfectly acceptable for use in written English. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it carries a neutral to professional tone. When using this phrase, clarity is key – ensure the context makes it clear what is being modified. For slight variations in meaning, consider alternatives such as "minor adjustment" or "slight alteration".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor adjustment

This alternative emphasizes the act of adjusting something to a slightly better or more suitable state.

slight alteration

Focuses on the act of making something different in a small way.

minimal change

Highlights the fact that the modification is as small as possible.

minor tweak

Implies a very small and often precise adjustment.

modest revision

Suggests a limited and controlled change to something previously created.

subtle shift

Emphasizes a change that may be difficult to notice.

marginal difference

Indicates that the modification results in a small and perhaps unimportant distinction.

limited amendment

Highlights the restricted nature of the change.

negligible variation

Suggests that the change is so small as to be almost insignificant.

tiny refinement

Implies a small improvement made to something already quite good.

FAQs

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

You can use "small modification" to describe a minor change or adjustment made to something. For example, "The software only requires a "small modification" to function correctly."

What are some alternatives to "small modification"?

Alternatives include "minor adjustment", "slight alteration", or "minimal change". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "small modification" or "minor modification"?

Both "small modification" and "minor modification" are acceptable. They are largely interchangeable, though "minor modification" might sound slightly more formal to some.

What's the difference between a "small modification" and a "major overhaul"?

A ""small modification"" refers to a minor change, while a "major overhaul" indicates a significant and comprehensive transformation. The scale and impact of the change are the key differences.