small risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small risk" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where there is a low possibility of something negative happening. Example: Although there is a small risk of rain, we decided to have our picnic in the park.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's not a small risk".

The New York Times

And this is just a small risk".

The New York Times

But it's a small risk.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A 100% increase of a very small risk is still a very small risk.

The Guardian

"You're taking a small risk and raising it somewhat," she said, "but it's still a small risk".

The New York Times - Health

But it's a small risk of a serious problem.

The New York Times

Almost impossible to detect, it also entails a small risk of serious health problems.

The New York Times

He was too busy but suggested a friend, Mr. Yazbek, who posed no small risk.

The New York Times

Inflation would ease, it said, but some countries would face a small risk of deflation.

The New York Times

Both can pick up mitochondrial diseases, but they carry a small risk of miscarriage.

The Guardian

It claims the benefits from fatty acids which occur in fish outweigh the small risk.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When assessing potential actions, quantify the "small risk" whenever possible. Instead of saying 'there's a small risk of failure', consider stating 'there's a 5% chance of failure' for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the implications of a "small risk". Ensure your language accurately reflects the low probability. Do not present it as a near certainty or downplay potential consequences if they are significant, regardless of the low likelihood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small risk" functions as a noun phrase, where 'small' modifies the noun 'risk'. It quantifies the level of danger or uncertainty associated with a particular action, event, or situation. As Ludwig highlights, it correctly indicates a low probability of a negative outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small risk" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to describe situations where the potential for a negative outcome is minimal. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct. It appears most often in news and media outlets, as well as scientific publications, indicating its versatility across various domains. While alternatives exist, the core meaning remains consistent: a situation presenting a limited possibility of adverse events. When using this phrase, avoid exaggeration and strive for accurate quantification to enhance clarity and informed decision-making. It is used to inform and reassure, providing a balanced perspective on potential threats and uncertainties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minimal hazard

This alternative uses "hazard" instead of "risk", emphasizing the potential for danger or harm but maintaining the sense of it being minimal.

negligible threat

This alternative replaces "risk" with "threat", suggesting a potential danger that is so small it can be ignored.

slight chance of danger

This alternative uses "chance of danger", which is a more descriptive way of saying risk, and "slight" replaces small.

low probability of harm

This alternative shifts from a simple noun phrase to a more formal and statistically inclined expression.

remote possibility of loss

This phrase replaces "risk" with a description of what's at stake by pointing out to "loss".

limited exposure

This alternative focuses on the extent of exposure to the danger, rather than the risk itself.

minor uncertainty

This alternative suggests that the potential for something negative is not a certainty and is relatively small.

inconsequential gamble

This alternative uses "gamble" instead of "risk", emphasizing the element of chance and decision-making, while "inconsequential" replaces small.

modest jeopardy

This alternative replaces "risk" with "jeopardy", highlighting the potential for being in danger, and "modest" replaces small.

contained peril

This suggests the risk is not only small but also controlled or limited in scope.

FAQs

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

The phrase "small risk" is used to describe a situation where there is a low chance of something negative happening. For example: "There is a "small risk" of rain this afternoon, but we should still go for a walk."

What phrases are similar to "small risk"?

You can use alternatives like "minimal hazard", "negligible threat", or "slight chance of danger" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "small risk" or "low risk"?

Both "small risk" and "low risk" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.

Can "small risk" be applied to both physical and abstract situations?

Yes, "small risk" can be used in various contexts, whether it involves physical dangers or abstract concepts. For instance, "There's a "small risk" of injury during the hike" or "There's a "small risk" the investment might underperform".