passing comment
Definition
- Noun:
- An incidental remark: A "passing comment" is a brief, casual, or offhand statement made without much thought or emphasis, often as an aside during a conversation or activity.
Usage
- A "passing comment" is typically used to describe a remark that is not the main focus of a discussion. It is made in passing, meaning it is secondary or tangential. It can be spoken or written and often carries a connotation of being unimportant or made without serious intent, though it can sometimes unintentionally reveal significant information or feelings.
Examples
- Noun:
- She made a passing comment about the weather before starting the meeting.
- His passing comment on the budget deficit was later picked up by the news media.
- Don't read too much into it; it was just a passing comment.
Advanced Usage
- "To make a passing comment": This is the standard collocation for using this noun phrase.
- The director made a passing comment about possible layoffs, which caused anxiety among the staff.
Variants and Related Words
- Remark (n): A general term for something said or written. A "passing comment" is a specific type of remark.
- Aside (n): A remark not intended to be heard by everyone; often used in theatrical contexts but similar in casualness.
- Offhand remark (n): A synonym emphasizing the lack of preparation or forethought.
- Casual observation (n): A phrase with a similar meaning, often neutral or analytical.
Synonyms
- Incidental remark
- Casual remark
- Offhand comment
- Throwaway line
Related Phrases
- In passing: This adverbial phrase is related and describes how a comment is made.
- He mentioned the issue only in passing.
Noun
-
an incidental remark
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