small modifications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small modifications" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe changes or alterations that are minor in nature. Example: "The research team made small modifications to their methodology in order to improve the accuracy of their results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Every new iteration has brought small modifications to the space.

The New Yorker

DOMA would extend existing protections, with small modifications as necessary.

The Washington Post

Some small modifications are to be considered Wednesday.

The New York Times

The Robin runs Google's latest version of Android 6.0 Marshmallow with a few small modifications.

The Guardian - Tech

Sony customises the standard Android 5.1 Lollipop experience with small modifications.

The Guardian - Tech

Such small modifications may not be noticed by public audience.

Applied Computing and Informatics

Small modifications to the J/ψ cross sections are observed in pPb relative to pp collisions.

Princeton University

"They're driving this toward the mayor's plan with a few small modifications, most of which make it worse".

The New York Times

Protein recruitment to GUV, (S FCCS, and GUV permeabilization experiments were all performed as described previously with small modifications.

Nature

The six axially derived eye muscles of fishes undergo only small modifications in tetrapods.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We're just dealing with small modifications, and all within the footwear genus.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, specify the area where "small modifications" were implemented for clarity. This helps the audience understand the scope and impact of the changes.

Common error

Avoid using "small modifications" to describe changes that fundamentally alter the subject. Ensure the adjective accurately reflects the magnitude of the changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small modifications" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "small" modifies the noun "modifications". It describes the nature of changes made to something, indicating they are minor or insignificant. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small modifications" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe minor changes or alterations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread across diverse fields, including science, news, and business. When using this phrase, remember that it conveys the idea of non-substantial changes. Alternatives like "minor alterations" or "slight adjustments" can offer similar shades of meaning. Be cautious not to overstate the impact of these changes, ensuring the adjective aligns with the true magnitude of the adjustments made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor alterations

Replaces "modifications" with a synonym that also suggests slight changes.

slight adjustments

Emphasizes the subtle nature of the changes made.

minimal changes

Stresses the insignificance of the alterations.

subtle revisions

Highlights that the changes are not immediately obvious.

modest amendments

Implies changes that are limited in scope and impact.

tiny adjustments

Emphasizes the very small size of the modifications.

limited alterations

Focuses on the restricted extent of the changes.

incremental changes

Indicates that the modifications are made gradually over time.

slight variations

Suggests that the changes are deviations from a standard.

fine-tuning

Implies that the modifications are made to optimize performance.

FAQs

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

You can use "small modifications" to describe minor alterations to a plan, design, or process. For instance, "The software only required "slight adjustments" to be compatible with the new operating system."

What's a good alternative to "small modifications"?

Depending on the context, consider using "minor alterations", "slight changes", or "subtle revisions" to convey a similar meaning.

What is the difference between "small modifications" and "major revisions"?

"Small modifications" imply minimal changes that do not significantly alter the original form or function. "Major revisions" suggest substantial changes that can lead to a different outcome or design.

Is it correct to say "small modifications were made" or "small modifications was made"?

The correct phrasing is "small modifications were made" because "modifications" is plural, requiring the plural verb form "were".