a limited few

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a limited few" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small number of people or things that are restricted in some way. Example: "The event was exclusive, allowing entry to a limited few who had received special invitations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

For a limited few, the status quo is just fine.

The New York Times

The latest ad has a reference to "the possible errors of a limited few" but does not deal with the nature of those errors.

The New York Times

As Dr. Welch notes, the list price charged for various procedures is highly inflated but paid only by a limited few — certainly not Medicare, Medicaid or private insurers or other health plans that negotiate discounts with hospitals.

The New York Times

Whilst Rowing accepts a limited few will continue paying big wages, most clubs will benefit.

BBC

As technological innovation and startup success spurs economic growth around the world, there is a growing concern that this new wealth generation is benefitting only a limited few, instead of sparking a global revolution that removes boundaries, promotes equality and reduces the wage gap.

TechCrunch

In my interactions with her she has come across as a genuine, open and honest person, one of a limited few who loves life without hate, who is happy to participate in conversations and contribute positively and intelligently at the same time.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In a more limited (fewer sequences) way, this has recently been found to be the case for miRNA contained in microparticles following ischemic cardiac injury [7].

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Because it looks less distinctive than, say, the SL and has a limited production, few people have heard of, let alone seen one.

Forbes

In Tunisia, despite an aging population, only a limited and fewer Tunisian studies have focused exclusively on the elderly.

BMC Endocrine Disorders

It has a limited menu (a few soft-shell tacos and a handful of sides, washed down with PBR, tequila or sangria) with a sliver of imported ingredients.

The New York Times - Travel

When Mio, a Philadelphia sustainable-design company, included a bright green cylindrical worm composter in a collection it sold at Target during a limited run a few years ago, the eco-design crowd cheered.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a limited few" when you want to emphasize that the number is not only small but also restricted for specific reasons, such as access or eligibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a limited few" simply as a synonym for "a few". The phrase carries an implication of exclusivity or restriction, so ensure it aligns with the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited few" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun. It modifies a noun by indicating a small, restricted number of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

38%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a limited few" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a small and restricted number of items or individuals. Ludwig AI confirms this. Its usage spans across diverse fields like news, science, and general writing, indicating its broad applicability. While synonyms like "a select few" or "only a few" exist, it's crucial to remember that "a limited few" specifically emphasizes restriction and exclusivity. Therefore, always consider the context to ensure accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a select few

Emphasizes the chosen or elite nature of the small group.

only a few

Simple and direct way to express a small quantity.

a small minority

Highlights that the group is smaller than half of a larger whole.

a restricted number

Focuses on the limitation or control of the group's size.

a handful of people

Implies the group is very small, literally able to be counted on one hand.

a privileged few

Adds the connotation of special advantage or access.

an exclusive circle

Implies a closed group with specific membership criteria.

a scarce number

Suggests rarity or difficulty in finding members of the group.

a fractional portion

Highlights that the group is a very small part of a larger whole.

a confined group

Emphasizes the limitations and boundaries of the group.

FAQs

How can I use "a limited few" in a sentence?

Use "a limited few" to refer to a small number of people or things that are restricted or exclusive in some way. For example, "Only "a limited few" were chosen to participate in the exclusive program".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a limited few"?

You can use alternatives like "a select few", "only a few", or "a small minority" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a limited few" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a limited few" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English. It is considered a standard and acceptable phrase.

What does the phrase "a limited few" emphasize?

The phrase "a limited few" emphasizes that the quantity is not only small but also restricted, exclusive, or subject to certain conditions.