the margin is narrow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the margin is narrow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is little difference or a small amount of space between two points, often in contexts like competition, decision-making, or financial matters. Example: "In the recent election, the margin is narrow, indicating a highly competitive race between the candidates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In the case of Jim Jason Biggss), the margin is narrow indeed.

The New York Times

The latest polling has in ahead of out, but the margin is narrow: 44% to 39%, according to ICM.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ashish is currently in the lead, but the margin is narrow and upsets have a way of happening when the clock draws low.

TechCrunch

The margin is narrow, but last week's figures from Nielsen mark the fifth consecutive week "Today" has won in the demographic group.

Los Angeles Times

The margin is narrow -- that's only 0.2percentt net positive -- but it's the first time Obama's job approval ratings have reached positive territory in the HuffPost Pollster average since his re-election honeymoon period ended in the spring of 2013.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The margin is narrower among the larger group of voters who attend church once a week, with 56percentt planning to vote for Mr. Bush and 44percentt planning to vote for a Democrat.

The New York Times

All Ireland's major political parties support the referendum passing, but while polls have indicated a definite victory for the "yes" side, the margin is narrowing, and some say surveys have been skewed by some "no" voters being hesitant to admit to their views.

Vice

The margin was narrow enough to draw audible gasps in the convention hall.

The New York Times

Once again, the margin was narrow as England overcame the disappointing Swedes when Gareth Barry's first-half header was deflected in off Daniel Majstorovic for the country's 2,000th goal.

BBC

"The margin was narrow but isn't the big story.

Huffington Post

The margin was narrow at 50.65% against the 49.35% polled by his older brother (yes, you read right, his brother), David Miliband.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the margin is narrow" to emphasize the closeness of a competition, election, or other situation where outcomes are tightly contested. This phrase adds a sense of suspense and importance to the situation.

Common error

While "the margin is narrow" is a valid expression, avoid using it repeatedly in the same piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "the difference is slight" or "it's a close call" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the margin is narrow" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating that the difference between two quantities, options, or results is small. Ludwig AI examples show it used in contexts ranging from elections to performance anxieties.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the margin is narrow" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a situation where there is little difference between two options or results. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. It serves to emphasize the closeness or competitiveness of a situation. While the phrase is suitable for formal writing, it's best to avoid overuse. Alternatives include "the difference is slight" or "it's a close call". Remember to use the phrase to add a sense of suspense and significance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the difference is slight

Emphasizes the small size of the difference.

the gap is small

Focuses on the limited space or interval between two things.

it's a close call

Highlights the uncertainty and potential for different outcomes.

the lead is slim

Specifically refers to a small advantage in a competition or race.

it's touch and go

Indicates a precarious situation where the outcome is uncertain.

the spread is tight

Implies that the range between two values is constricted.

it's a close contest

Describes a competition or election where the participants are nearly equal.

the balance is delicate

Suggests that the current state is unstable and easily disrupted.

the distinction is fine

Indicates that the difference between two things is subtle and hard to perceive.

the line is thin

Implies that the boundary between two states or conditions is easily crossed.

FAQs

How can I use "the margin is narrow" in a sentence?

You can use "the margin is narrow" to describe situations where there's little difference between two outcomes, such as "In the election, "the margin is narrow", suggesting a tight race" or "The margin is narrow in the company's profits this quarter".

What does "the margin is narrow" mean?

It signifies that the difference between two values, results, or positions is small and could easily change or be overturned. The phrase suggests a precarious or competitive situation.

What can I say instead of "the margin is narrow"?

You can use alternatives like "the difference is slight", "it's a close call", or "the gap is small" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the margin is narrow" in formal writing?

Yes, "the margin is narrow" is suitable for formal writing, including news reports, academic papers, and business communications. It is a clear and professional way to convey the idea of a small difference or close contest.