small problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"small problem" is correct and usable in written English.
For example, you could use it in the sentence, "I ran into a small problem while trying to fix the computer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is not a small problem.

The New York Times

"There's just one small problem, though.

The New York Times

Alas, there was a small problem.

The Economist

They may encounter a small problem.

The New York Times

But there is one, small problem.

The Economist

This is no small problem.

The New York Times

But there's one small problem.

The Guardian

One small problem: you might die.

The Guardian

The one small problem involved the photographs.

The New York Times

It's a small problem for Silva.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

*Responded "yes"; **Responded "big" or "moderate" (versus "no/small problem").

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the "small problem", briefly state the obstacle and move directly into possible solutions or workarounds. Don't dwell on details that magnify its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "small problem" to describe situations that have significant consequences. This can minimize the impact and damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "problem". It is used to describe a minor issue or difficulty that needs to be addressed. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a minor issue or difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While acceptable in formal writing, more precise language might be preferred depending on the specific context. When using the phrase, it's important to avoid exaggeration and ensure it aligns with the actual significance of the issue. By considering these nuances, you can effectively and appropriately incorporate the phrase "small problem" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor issue

Focuses on the issue aspect, implying something not significant.

minor setback

Focuses on the delay or impediment.

slight difficulty

Emphasizes the difficulty aspect, highlighting a light challenge.

trivial matter

Highlights the insignificance of the problem.

little snag

Suggests a quick fix is likely needed.

inconsequential hiccup

Indicates a temporary and unimportant disruption.

negligible concern

Stresses that the problem is not worth worrying about.

slight inconvenience

Highlights the disturbance or bother caused.

insignificant setback

Highlights that the problem won't cause significant delays.

petty complication

Suggests the problem is annoyingly minor.

FAQs

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

You can use "small problem" to describe a minor issue or difficulty. For example, "We encountered a "small problem" with the software, but we were able to fix it quickly".

What are some alternatives to saying "small problem"?

Alternatives to "small problem" include "minor issue", "slight difficulty", or "trivial matter". The best choice depends on the specific context.

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

Yes, "small problem" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially if you want to downplay the severity of an issue. However, consider alternatives like "minor setback" or "slight complication" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "small problem" and "big problem"?

"Small problem" indicates a minor issue that can be easily resolved, while "big problem" signifies a serious issue with significant consequences. Understanding the scale of the issue is important for selecting the appropriate phrase and setting expectations.