A smaller amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A smaller amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing quantities, indicating that one quantity is less than another. Example: "To achieve better results, we need to use a smaller amount of the chemical in the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A smaller amount was paid in 2001, she said.

The New York Times - Arts

A smaller amount would go to deficit reduction.

The New York Times

A smaller amount of material exists for the student strikes of 1969, 1970 , 1971 and 1972.

Columbia University

A smaller amount is stored at the Idaho National Laboratory, in Idaho Falls.

The New York Times

A smaller amount of outgoing letters is also included.

Duke University

A smaller amount said they express their style with a suit and tie.

Forbes

A smaller amount of these people I actually do know personally, but in varying degrees.

Vice

A smaller amount of water is used in the process resulting in a reduced energy demand.

Biotechnology for Biofuels

A smaller amount of fluid filling a small cup may be enough to quench thirst.

WikiHow

Smaller resorts and other travel destinations would also be affected, but by a smaller amount.

Bplans

It means "a smaller amount".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two amounts, ensure clarity by specifying what the "smaller amount" is less than. For example, "Use a smaller amount of sugar compared to flour" provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "less amount" as it's grammatically less precise. Use "smaller amount" when referring to countable items or quantities that can be measured discretely. "Less" is better suited for abstract nouns like time or effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A smaller amount" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a reduced quantity or degree. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. This phrase typically introduces a comparison, implying a reduction relative to a previously mentioned or understood quantity, as demonstrated by the examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "A smaller amount" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a reduced quantity or degree. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English. It's versatile across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing, although it is more prevalent in certain categories. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the amount is being compared to. Common alternatives include "a reduced quantity" and "a lesser quantity". Overall, the phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources and widely accepted, making it a reliable choice for expressing a reduced quantity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A reduced quantity

Focuses specifically on the numerical aspect, emphasizing the reduction in count or measure.

A lesser quantity

Similar to 'reduced quantity' but can also imply a lower value or importance.

A decreased portion

Emphasizes the part or share that has been diminished.

A lower volume

Highlights the reduction in space occupied, especially relevant for liquids or gases.

A slighter degree

Refers to a lesser intensity or extent of something, not necessarily numerical.

A minimal quantity

Implies the amount is very small and close to the lowest possible limit.

A diminished proportion

Focuses on the reduction relative to the whole or original amount.

A curtailed measure

Suggests that the amount has been deliberately limited or restricted.

A contracted sum

Suitable when referring to a financial total that has been reduced.

A lighter touch

Implies less force or intensity; appropriate in contexts such as art, cooking, or physical contact.

FAQs

How can I use "A smaller amount" in a sentence?

You can use "A smaller amount" to indicate a reduction in quantity compared to something else. For example, "Use "a smaller amount of water" when mixing the concrete."

What is a synonym for "A smaller amount"?

Alternatives to "A smaller amount" include "a reduced quantity", "a lesser quantity", or "a decreased portion".

When should I use "fewer" instead of "A smaller amount"?

"A smaller amount" refers to a quantity of something in bulk. Use "fewer" when referring to countable items. For example, "fewer ingredients" instead of "a smaller amount of ingredients".

Is it correct to say "less amount" instead of "A smaller amount"?

While "less amount" is sometimes used, it's generally more grammatically correct and precise to use "A smaller amount," especially when referring to countable items or measurable quantities. "Less" is better for abstract concepts.