small observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to make a brief or minor comment about something you have noticed. Example: "I have a small observation regarding the presentation that I think could enhance its clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

In general, the results showed that parameter inference with partially observed data is more difficult than the one with fully observed data, and to achieve good estimation accuracy, more observations with small observation intervals will be needed.

BMC Systems Biology

A small observation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Hezbollah, he said, has about a dozen small observation points along the border.

The New York Times

Soldiers at a small observation post stop local residents and journalists from making the trip.

The New York Times

It's a small observation, meaningless to the plot, yet it demonstrates the pathologist's unreasonably idealistic nature.

The New York Times - Books

For the moment, one small observation about the craft of it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Such small observations achieve a kind of everyday poetry.

The Guardian - Arts

Mr. Vidal starts with small observations and builds them up until they ascend to the proper grandiosity — and grandeur.

The New York Times - Books

"Friends" has gotten better than ever over the past two seasons because its comedy works on the level of small observations; it is the new "Seinfeld".

The New York Times - Arts

Boston-based Merrie Amsterberg is a multi-instrumentalist with a clear, high, delicate voice who writes songs based on small observations and modestly expressed sentiment.

The New York Times

These are only small observations, but they are something close to the sum of what we know: so far, so good, on the whole.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small observation" to introduce a point that might seem insignificant but could have a larger implication. This can create a sense of anticipation or importance around a seemingly minor detail.

Common error

Avoid using "small observation" to introduce a point that is actually very significant or impactful. This can undermine the credibility of your analysis by creating a mismatch between the introduction and the content.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small observation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "observation". It introduces a detail or point that the speaker or writer deems minor or limited in scope. As Ludwig states, the phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

41%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small observation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a minor detail or point. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and applicable in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, be mindful not to understate the importance of a significant detail and explore alternatives like "minor point" or "brief remark" to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small detail

Refers to an observation about something of reduced size or importance.

minor point

Focuses on the insignificance of the detail being observed.

brief remark

Highlights the brevity of the comment.

slight comment

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the observation.

quick insight

Suggests a rapid understanding or realization.

passing thought

Implies the observation is fleeting and perhaps not fully developed.

casual remark

Indicates a non-serious, offhand observation.

incidental note

Highlights that the observation is secondary or not of central importance.

minor detail

Draws attention to the observation as a less important element.

fleeting glimpse

Describes an observation that is very brief and possibly incomplete.

FAQs

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

You can use "small observation" to introduce a minor point or detail that you want to highlight. For example, "I have a "small observation" about the design that could improve usability."

What are some alternatives to "small observation"?

Alternatives include "minor point", "brief remark", or "slight comment". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "small observation" in formal writing?

Yes, "small observation" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, you might consider alternatives like "incidental note" for a more elevated tone.

When should I avoid using "small observation"?

Avoid using "small observation" if the observation is actually quite significant or has major implications. In such cases, a more direct phrase, such as "key finding" or "important detail", would be more appropriate.