with a slight reservation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with a slight reservation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a cautious or hesitant agreement or approval of something, indicating that there are some minor concerns or doubts. Example: "I agree with your proposal, but I must say it comes with a slight reservation regarding the budget allocation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

If there's a slight reservation with Porter, it's those rather too self-conscious invocations of a golden age.

The Guardian - Music

Fabian says he still has a "slight reservation" about the assertion that the results prove the role of black hole spin.

Science Magazine

He was an active person before, during, and after intervention, but expressed a slight reservation regarding activity level after intervention.

Clinical interventions in aging

Currently leading with a slight advantage is Bryan Nauleau.

BBC

With one slight reservation, the cast is first-rate.

The Guardian - Music

"Always," he said with a slight chuckle.

The New York Times - Sports

"Nahhh," Curry said with a slight chuckle.

The New York Times - Sports

"No," he said, with a slight smile.

The New Yorker

He even speaks with a slight accent".

The New Yorker

He walked away, with a slight limp.

The New Yorker

Keyboard with a slight wah sound.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with a slight reservation" to express polite disagreement or qualified support, especially when you want to soften the impact of your concerns. For example, "I appreciate your proposal, but I accept it with a slight reservation regarding the timeline."

Common error

Avoid using "with a slight reservation" to mask direct criticism or avoid taking responsibility. Instead of saying "The plan is accepted with a slight reservation", be direct: "I accept the plan, but I have a minor reservation about the budget."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with a slight reservation" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating a qualified or hesitant agreement. It adds nuance by expressing a minor concern alongside general acceptance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with a slight reservation" is a useful tool for expressing qualified agreement or polite disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. While not extremely common, it allows you to introduce minor concerns without completely rejecting an idea or proposal. Remember to use it strategically to soften criticism and maintain a respectful tone. Consider alternatives like "with some hesitation" or "with a minor caveat" for similar effects. It's a neutral way to express you support something, but with a slight reservation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a minor caveat

Substitutes "slight reservation" with "minor caveat", indicating a specific condition or limitation.

with a small proviso

Uses "proviso" to denote a condition or stipulation that affects the agreement.

with some hesitation

Replaces "slight reservation" with a more general term for doubt or reluctance.

qualified agreement

A more concise way of expressing agreement that is not absolute.

subject to some concerns

Indicates that approval is conditional and depends on addressing certain issues.

having certain hesitations

Emphasizes the presence of hesitations from the beginning.

with a touch of reluctance

Focuses on the speaker's hesitancy or unwillingness.

with a degree of skepticism

Replaces "reservation" with "skepticism", suggesting a stronger element of doubt.

bearing some reservations

Highlights that the reservations are carried or maintained by the speaker.

not without some misgivings

Emphasizes the presence of doubts or anxieties.

FAQs

What does "with a slight reservation" mean?

It means you generally agree with something but have a small concern or doubt about a specific aspect of it. It implies a qualified acceptance rather than complete agreement.

How can I use "with a slight reservation" in a sentence?

You can use it to express a mild objection or concern after stating your agreement. For example, "I support the project, "with a slight reservation" regarding its environmental impact."

What are some alternatives to "with a slight reservation"?

Alternatives include phrases like "with some hesitation", "with a minor caveat", or "subject to some concerns", depending on the context.

Is it better to be direct instead of using "with a slight reservation"?

Sometimes, directness is preferable for clarity, especially in professional settings. However, ""with a slight reservation"" can be useful when you want to soften your criticism or maintain a polite tone.