tiny crack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tiny crack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small fissure or opening in a surface, often in contexts related to physical objects or structures. Example: "There was a tiny crack in the wall that allowed a small amount of light to seep through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

A tiny crack appeared".

The New York Times - Books

It was the tiny crack in the hull of the battleship.

Independent

Nearly formless, it can slip like a mouse through a tiny crack.

The New Yorker

Shapiro said that could "open the door a tiny, tiny crack" for trade talks.

The New York Times - Sports

We didn't turn her around completely, but we opened her up a little tiny crack".

The New York Times

There was a tiny crack in the glass, and a line of mist at the crack, under the glass.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Tiny cracks have appeared in "Homage from the Colonies".

The New Yorker

This stops tiny cracks propagating through the stuff, which gives it strength.

The Economist

The trimmer snaps on, the noise making a million tiny cracks in the afternoon.

The New Yorker

Water can also seep into tiny cracks in the surface of the concrete.

The New York Times

One problem is that, with stress, tiny cracks can develop that can eventually lead to bigger, destructive cracks.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like vulnerabilities in systems or arguments, use "tiny crack" to denote an initial weakness that could lead to larger problems. For example, "A "tiny crack" in the company's security protocol led to a major data breach."

Common error

Avoid using "tiny crack" when referring to significant or large-scale damage. The phrase emphasizes smallness and initial stages, so using it for substantial damage will create a mismatch in meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tiny crack" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "tiny" modifies the noun "crack". This phrase describes a physical imperfection or opening of very small size. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating its use in describing concrete objects like glass, fuel lines, and walls.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tiny crack" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a small imperfection or opening. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its prevalent use in news, science, and general contexts. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it is advisable to use more precise technical terms in formal settings when accuracy is paramount. When writing, avoid overstating the severity of damage or vulnerability by using "tiny crack" for substantial issues. Overall, this phrase is versatile and readily understood, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small fissure

Replaces "crack" with a more technical term, "fissure", implying a narrow opening or split.

minor split

Substitutes "crack" with "split", suggesting a separation or division, while "minor" emphasizes the small scale.

slight fracture

Replaces "crack" with "fracture", indicating a break or rupture, and "slight" denotes its minimal extent.

minute crevice

Uses "crevice" to describe a narrow opening, and "minute" highlights the extremely small size.

negligible breach

Employs "breach" to signify a gap or opening, with "negligible" stressing its insignificance.

hairline fissure

"Hairline" emphasizes the thinness of the "fissure", indicating a very narrow opening.

microscopic fracture

"Microscopic" highlights the fracture's extremely small size, requiring magnification to see.

small opening

A more general term that describes the presence of a space or gap.

slight imperfection

Focuses on the flaw or defect, describing it as "slight" to indicate its minimal impact.

initial flaw

Emphasizes that the "flaw" is in its early stages and is relatively small.

FAQs

How can I use "tiny crack" in a sentence?

You can use "tiny crack" to describe a small imperfection or opening. For example: "There was a "tiny crack" in the glass", or "The engineer discovered a "tiny crack" in the fuel line".

What's a good alternative to "tiny crack"?

Alternatives include "small fissure", "minor split", or "slight fracture", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "tiny crack" in formal writing?

Yes, "tiny crack" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when describing technical issues or vulnerabilities. However, consider more technical terms like "small fissure" if precision is paramount.

What does it mean when someone says there's a "tiny crack" in something?

It usually means there's a small imperfection or vulnerability that could potentially lead to bigger problems if not addressed. For example, "A "tiny crack" in their argument made it unconvincing".