A small reduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A small reduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor decrease in quantity, size, or amount in various contexts, such as finance, measurements, or general descriptions. Example: "After reviewing the budget, we decided to implement a small reduction in our marketing expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A small reduction of the surface roughness can also be observed for thicker layer [22].

Journal of the European Optical Society-Rapid Publications

A small reduction (∼12%) in area percent stenosis was observed in LAD arteries, and was associated with reduced inflammatory response.

Plosone

A small reduction of these compounds was calculated overall.

Critical Reviews in Toxicology

A small reduction in the stay and total hospital costs (silver-level evidence) was found [ 42].

BMC Geriatrics

This increase was associated with a small reduction in PaCO2.

Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia

The authors also found a small reduction in blood pressure in people who had more potassium.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At best, corn ethanol delivers only a small reduction in greenhouse gases compared with gasoline.

The New York Times

That rate reflected a small reduction of a preliminary tariff set earlier.

The New York Times

For gasoline, it takes only a small reduction in supply to trigger large price hikes.

The New York Times

Early in his Presidency, Obama did initiate a small reduction in our nuclear arsenal.

The New Yorker

The authors found no effect on HOMA-IR, but reported a small reduction of fasting insulin198.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small reduction", ensure the context clarifies what is being reduced and the scale of the reduction. Provide specific numbers or comparisons if possible to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a small reduction" when the actual reduction is negligible or insignificant. Ensure the reduction is meaningful enough to warrant mentioning; otherwise, it may mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small reduction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in describing a slight decrease. For instance, "a small reduction in costs" or "there was a small reduction in staff".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science & Research

17%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small reduction" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a slight decrease in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across news, science, and business domains. While semantically similar alternatives like "slight decrease" or "minor decline" exist, "a small reduction" maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal writing. When using the phrase, clarify what is being reduced and the scale of the reduction to avoid ambiguity. Avoid overstating the significance of the reduction if it is truly negligible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight decrease

Replaces "reduction" with "decrease" maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

minor decline

Uses "decline" instead of "reduction", suggesting a downward trend that is not substantial.

marginal drop

Employs "drop" to signify a small fall or decrease.

modest cutback

Substitutes "reduction" with "cutback", indicating a slight curtailment or reduction in spending or resources.

limited lessening

Replaces "reduction" with "lessening", implying a small decrease in intensity or amount.

tiny diminution

Uses "diminution" which is a more formal word for reduction.

a bit of a fall

More informal, replacing "reduction" with "fall" to describe a minor decrease.

slight downturn

Suggests a slight negative trend.

minimal contraction

"Contraction" suggests a decrease in size or extent.

a touch of shrinkage

A less formal phrase, using "shrinkage" to describe a small decrease in size.

FAQs

How can I use "a small reduction" in a sentence?

You can use "a small reduction" to describe a slight decrease in quantity, size, or intensity. For example, "The new policy resulted in a small reduction in energy consumption."

What are some alternatives to "a small reduction"?

Alternatives include "slight decrease", "minor decline", or "marginal drop", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a small reduction" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small reduction" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when precision is needed. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the document.

What is the difference between "a small reduction" and "a significant reduction"?

"A small reduction" indicates a slight decrease, while "a significant reduction" implies a substantial or noteworthy decrease. The choice depends on the magnitude of the change you're describing.