small point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor detail or aspect of a discussion or argument. Example: "While I appreciate your feedback, I would like to address a small point that may have been overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One small point.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But there is one small point.

Independent

That is no small point.

The New York Times

This is no small point.

The Guardian

A small point of protocol?

The Guardian - Opinion

It seems like a small point.

The Guardian - Tech

It is not a small point.

The Guardian

That is not a small point.

The New York Times

A small point, but it made me feel proud.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Some might even make money, no small point these days.

The New York Times

A small point, Mr. Soderbergh said, but telling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small point" to introduce a detail that, while seemingly minor, might have implications for the larger context.

Common error

Avoid using "small point" to introduce something genuinely important. It can undermine your argument and confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small point" functions as a discourse marker, often used to signal a shift in focus to a less significant detail or to introduce a minor observation within a larger discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its common use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small point" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to introduce a minor detail or observation. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to avoid overstating the significance of the "small point" and choose more formal alternatives like "subsidiary point" when appropriate. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain clarity and avoid undermining your primary argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor detail

Focuses on the detail being unimportant rather than the argument itself.

insignificant detail

Emphasizes lack of importance.

trivial matter

Highlights unimportance.

minor issue

Frames it as a slight problem.

slight concern

Presents it as a low-level worry.

subsidiary point

Indicates it's a secondary consideration.

peripheral aspect

Highlights that it's not central.

lesser consideration

Emphasizes its reduced importance.

immaterial fact

Highlights the lack of relevance.

side issue

Frames it as a diversion from the main topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "small point" to introduce a minor detail or aspect of a discussion. For example: "That's a "small point", but it's indicative of a larger problem."

What are some alternatives to saying "small point"?

Alternatives include "minor detail", "insignificant detail", or "trivial matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "small point" is acceptable in formal writing, particularly when introducing a detail that needs to be acknowledged but isn't central to the main argument. However, consider alternatives like "subsidiary point" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "small point" and "main point"?

"Small point" refers to a minor detail, while "main point" refers to the central idea or argument. Using "small point" indicates that the information is secondary or less significant.