small update

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small update" is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use it to describe a minor alteration or improvement that has been made to something. For example, "I've made a small update to the code which should improve the website's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Another small update to CLIO was released today.

Columbia University

A few weeks ago we rolled out a small update to the website, with luck you didn't notice.

The Guardian

A small update on wireless charging: it's also supported by the Apple Watch series 3 and the new Airpods.

The Guardian - Tech

Perhaps wrongly!? Small update; I have created the channel "tedeq" with permeability for eq valence 2, equilibrium potential +50mV.

Yale University

A small update to the iPhone app is expected shortly after Apple's iOS 7 launch this Wednesday with a more significant one following it.

Independent

Anyone who has bought a copy of GTA 5 will have free access to the online portion of the game, though a small update will have to be downloaded from either the PlayStation Network or Xbox Live.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

CEO Tim Cook closed the presentation with a couple of small updates.

The Washington Post

Consumers should also expect to see small updates to Apple's operating systems for the Mac, Apple TV and Apple Watch.

The Washington Post

There will (probably) never be a Windows 11, because Microsoft is now producing two small updates each year instead of one big update every three years.

The Guardian - Tech

Even a website updated occasionally is now too slow; social media with its possibility of constant small updates and opportunities for response represents the "pulse of a school", Bidder says.

The Guardian

Alonso said: "We have brought some small updates here, which we already tried at the Bahrain test.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When announcing a "small update", clearly communicate the specific changes made and their benefits to the user to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid hyping a "small update" as a major overhaul. Be honest about the scope of the changes to maintain credibility with your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small update" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject or object within a sentence, referring to a minor modification or improvement. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it is used to describe software or system modifications.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

28%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small update" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe minor changes or improvements. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it is most frequently used in News & Media and Academic contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various audiences. While announcing it, remember to be clear about the changes and avoid overstating the impact. Consider alternatives like "minor revision" or "slight modification" to add nuance. As confirmed by Ludwig, the term is well-established and easily understood, making it a reliable choice for communicating incremental changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor revision

Implies a less significant change or correction compared to a full update.

slight modification

Focuses on the act of altering something in a small way.

incremental change

Highlights that the update is part of a series of small improvements.

patch

Specifically refers to a small fix or improvement, often in software.

tweak

Suggests a fine-tuning or adjustment to improve performance or appearance.

minor adjustment

Similar to 'slight modification,' but emphasizes the process of adjusting something.

light edit

Indicates a minimal amount of editing or revision.

small improvement

Highlights the positive aspect of the update, focusing on the betterment achieved.

mini update

Stresses the update is particularly small in scope.

quick fix

Implies that the update is a rapid solution to a problem.

FAQs

How to use "small update" in a sentence?

You can use "small update" to describe a minor change or improvement. For example, "The app received a "small update" to fix a few bugs."

What can I say instead of "small update"?

You can use alternatives like "minor revision", "slight modification", or "incremental change" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "small update" or "minor update"?

Both "small update" and "minor update" are correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "small update" and "major update"?

A "small update" refers to a minor change or improvement, typically addressing bugs or making slight enhancements. A "major update", on the other hand, involves significant changes, new features, or a complete overhaul.