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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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a distinct paucity of

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct paucity of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a noticeable lack or scarcity of something. Example: "The report highlighted a distinct paucity of evidence to support the claims made by the witnesses."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Although current epidemiological data suggest that S. aureus is responsible for greater than 80% of osteomyelitis cases there is a distinct paucity of information surrounding the mechanisms that S. aureus uses to weaken and trigger bone destruction.

Science

Plosone

There is a distinct paucity of research testing its effects on young people seeking help for mental health issues.

With a distinct paucity of long-term comparative-effectiveness trials available, uniform recommendations on the best agent to be combined with metformin cannot be made (80).

However, there is a distinct paucity of robust, population-based epidemiological data on the prevalence and natural history of this condition, limited to a few small studies.

In addition, there is still a distinct paucity of evidence-based and up-to-date information available for medical professionals on the effects and risks associated with the consumption of these products.

Currently, within the literature, there is a distinct paucity of child and adolescent survivor self-reports, thus limiting our understanding of how survivors perceive this adversity and subsequently cope and grow in the long-term following their critical illness.

Science

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Despite distinct soil layering, a general paucity of information exists on the physical properties of sand and peat in cranberry bogs.

Science

Geoderma

Although the Illinois Basin is mature in terms of hydrocarbon development, there is a distinct lack of modern geologic research in general, and in particular there is a paucity of 3D geologic modeling of Illinois oil fields.

"And twang, a distinct way of speaking.

News & Media

The New York Times

Some term it a crisis of faith, some an existential loneliness, some a paucity of purpose.

News & Media

Huffington Post

But there's "still a paucity of Series A and B capital resident in L.A". says Bricault.

News & Media

TechCrunch
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct paucity of", ensure the context requires a formal tone. It's best suited for academic, scientific, or professional writing where precision and emphasis on the lack of something are crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct paucity of" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "a clear lack of" or "a shortage of" are more appropriate.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

89%

Authority and reliability

4.4/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct paucity of" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a determiner phrase, that modifies a noun. It emphasizes a noticeable and significant lack or scarcity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct paucity of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize a noticeable lack or scarcity. Ludwig AI validates its appropriateness in formal contexts such as scientific and academic writing. While less common in informal settings, understanding its usage helps writers convey a precise meaning when highlighting deficiencies. Related phrases like "a marked lack of" and "a clear shortage of" offer alternatives depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to use it judiciously, reserving it for situations where the emphasis on the deficiency is crucial.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct paucity of" in a sentence?

Use "a distinct paucity of" to highlight a clear and noticeable lack of something, for example, "There is "a distinct paucity of" research in this area".

What are some alternatives to "a distinct paucity of"?

You can use alternatives like "a clear lack of", "a significant shortage of", or "a marked absence of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a distinct paucity of" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "a distinct paucity of" is more suited to formal writing. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives like "a lack of" or "a shortage of" are preferable.

What's the difference between "a distinct paucity of" and "a lack of"?

"A distinct paucity of" emphasizes a clear and noticeable deficiency, whereas ""a lack of"" is a more general term indicating the absence of something. The former is more formal and emphatic.

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Authority and reliability

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: