Word: Passing Comment
Definition: A "passing comment" is a quick or casual remark made about something, usually without going into much detail or depth. It’s often not meant to be taken very seriously and is usually not the main focus of a conversation.
Usage Instructions:
Use "passing comment" when you want to describe something someone said briefly, without much thought or emphasis.
It is often used in conversations where the speaker is moving on to another topic or when the remark doesn’t require a serious response.
Example:
"During the meeting, she made a passing comment about the new project, but we didn’t discuss it further."
"He made a passing comment about the weather before changing the subject."
Advanced Usage:
You can use "passing comment" in both formal and informal settings.
In writing, it can be used to critique or analyze someone's remarks, indicating that the comments were not well thought out.
Word Variants:
Different Meaning:
While "passing comment" usually refers to a brief remark, "passing" can also mean something that is temporary or fleeting, like "passing time" which means time that goes by quickly.
Synonyms:
Casual remark
Brief comment
Quick observation
Side note
Idioms:
"Just a thought": This can be used similarly to indicate a casual idea without depth.
"Off the cuff": This means saying something without preparation, similar to making a passing comment.
Phrasal Verbs:
Summary:
A "passing comment" is a light, quick remark made in conversation.