Phrase
/ʌv smɔːl əˈkaʊnt/
The phrase "of small account" refers to something that is of little importance or significance. In the English language, it is used primarily in a formal or literary context, where it conveys that an issue, person, or object is not worth much attention or consideration. This phrase is less commonly used in everyday conversation, suggesting a preference for more straightforward expressions in oral speech, while it may still find a place in written contexts such as literature, essays, and formal documentation.
Example Sentences:
1. Many believed that the artist's early works were of small account compared to his later masterpieces.
Многие считали, что ранние работы художника были малозначительными по сравнению с его поздними шедеврами.
In the grand scheme of things, these minor disagreements are of small account.
В общем масштабе эти мелкие разногласия имеют незначительное значение.
The committee decided that the complaints raised were of small account and did not warrant further investigation.
Комитет решил, что поднятые жалобы были малозначительными и не требуют дальнейшего расследования.
The phrase "of small account" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, but it can co-exist with other phrases that imply insignificance. Here are several idiomatic expressions that convey a similar sense of irrelevance or minor importance:
"No account": The findings of the study were of no account in shaping public policy.
Результаты исследования не имели значения в формировании государственной политики.
"A drop in the bucket": His contributions to the charity were a drop in the bucket compared to its overall funding needs.
Его взносы в благотворительность были каплей в море по сравнению с общими потребностями в финансировании.
"Small potatoes": While those numbers seem big to some, they're just small potatoes in the corporate world.
Хотя эти цифры кажутся большими для некоторых, они всего лишь мелочи в корпоративном мире.
"A dime a dozen": In this industry, creative ideas are a dime a dozen; it's execution that counts.
В этой отрасли творческих идей подавай — это всего лишь мелочь; важно их исполнение.
"Nothing to write home about": The reception was nice, but it was nothing to write home about.
Прием был приятным, но это было ничего особенного.
The phrase "of small account" derives from Old English, where "of" signifies belonging to or relating to, and "small account" refers to an account of minor value or importance. The historical context likely stems from financial terminology, where "account" can represent a ledger or the measure of worth in various settings, extending into idiomatic use over time.
This comprehensive look at the phrase "of small account" showcases its meaning, usage, and context within the English language, highlighting its rarity in modern spoken language but persistence in certain literary or formal writings.