smallest issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smallest issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a minor problem or concern in a discussion or analysis. Example: "While there are several challenges to address, the smallest issue is the scheduling conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"The smallest issue would balloon into a nightmare of a thousand e-mails," says Reno, who is now at Plumtree Software.

Forbes

I've walked into correctional facilities where the men and women are under constant stress; even the smallest issue will send them into a fit of rage.

Huffington Post

If your contact person is someone who goes hysterical at the smallest issue, they will quickly destroy what could be a long and productive relationship.

Huffington Post

So if you are in a relationship and you find yourself, as I did, pushing the eject button every time even the smallest issue arises, take it from me: the most important thing is not whether or not you fight; it's how you make it through the fight, as a couple, that makes your relationship a success or a failure.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And sometimes the smallest issues can be the worst.

The Guardian

This is no small issue.

The New York Times - Food

There was only one small issue.

The New York Times - Sports

But it's obviously a small issue.

The New York Times

It is no small issue.

The New York Times

Variety is also a small issue.

The Guardian - Tech

"It's not a small issue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "smallest issue", ensure the context clearly establishes that the issue is indeed minor and doesn't overshadow more significant concerns. It's most effective when contrasting it with larger problems.

Common error

Avoid using "smallest issue" when the problem actually has significant consequences. Overstating its insignificance can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smallest issue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "smallest" modifies the noun "issue". It is used to identify and describe a problem, concern, or matter that is considered to be the least significant among others. As Ludwig confirms, it is used to identify the most minor problem.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "smallest issue" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to refer to a minor problem. Ludwig confirms that it is suitable for written English, especially in News & Media contexts. While its frequency is relatively rare, it effectively serves to downplay the significance of a particular issue, particularly when contrasted with larger concerns. When using it, be mindful of the context and ensure the issue is genuinely minor to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor problem

Replaces "issue" with a more common synonym "problem".

trivial matter

Substitutes both "smallest" and "issue" with synonyms emphasizing insignificance.

insignificant detail

Focuses on the lack of importance of the issue.

slight concern

Replaces "issue" with "concern", highlighting a worry that is small.

negligible problem

Emphasizes that the problem is so small it can be ignored.

minor snag

Uses a more informal synonym for "problem".

petty detail

Focuses on the unimportance and almost annoying nature of the issue.

trifling concern

Emphasizes the lack of importance and value of the concern.

inconsequential matter

Highlights that the matter has no significant impact.

slight hitch

Uses an informal synonym for a temporary difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "smallest issue" in a sentence?

You can use "smallest issue" to refer to a minor problem or concern, as in, "While there are many challenges, the "smallest issue" is the scheduling conflict."

What can I say instead of "smallest issue"?

You can use alternatives like "minor problem", "trivial matter", or "insignificant detail" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "smallest issue" in formal writing?

Yes, but consider stronger alternatives like "negligible problem" or "inconsequential matter" if you want to emphasize the lack of importance in a more impactful way.

How does "smallest issue" compare to "minor issue"?

"Smallest issue" emphasizes the relative size and unimportance of the issue compared to others. "Minor issue" simply indicates it is not a major problem. They are largely interchangeable, but "smallest issue" adds a comparative element.