a limited majority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a limited majority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a majority exists, but it is not a strong or overwhelming majority, often implying that the support is minimal or fragile. Example: "The proposal was passed by a limited majority, indicating that many members were still undecided."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

To evaluate the cloud computing challenges, the simulation experiments just satisfy the non-functional properties with a limited majority in forms of QoS factors.

Computer Standards & Interfaces

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Even Britain's Conservatives conceded in the early stages of the IGC that they might accept a limited extension of majority voting.

The Economist

Although the overall value of option ARMs is lower than that of subprime loans some $500 billion, according to Mr Strand, compared with about $1 trillion in subprime loans their sting is more venomous.The option ARM allows borrowers to pay less interest than the formal rate for a limited period (the vast majority of customers choose this option).

The Economist

This is because at such doses the risk is dominated by initiation, and inactivation has a limited effect because the majority of cells can survive the exposure.

Cancer Management and Research

Carroll et al. has reported that ER binds selectively to a limited number of sites, majority of which are distant from the transcriptional start sites of regulated genes and that direct ER binding requires the presence of forkhead factor (foxa1) binding in close proximity [ 49].

BMC Systems Biology

"If there is a limited chance of ultimately gaining majority control, this may deter some long-term investors from looking to establish and build a local franchise," Fitch said in a statement.

The New York Times

However, a court conference the following year convinced the majority that a limited engagement at Mayi involving the assassination of the Chanyu would throw the Xiongnu realm into chaos and benefit the Han.

Wikipedia

Finally the findings of this review are based on a limited number of studies, the majority of which used a small sample size.

BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation

Using a decision analytic approach, we have also demonstrated that use of the model can importantly reduce biopsy rates while delaying the diagnosis of only a limited number of cancers, the majority of which are of low grade and low stage.

BMC Cancer

To some extent, such sentiments are a reflex action from a nation at war, albeit a limited war in which the vast majority of casualties are on the other side.

The New Yorker

The model includes only a limited number of parameters, for the majority of which, values have already been established in non-trial settings.

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a limited majority", consider clarifying the specific context and implications of the limited support. For example, explain how this might affect decision-making or policy implementation.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a limited majority" as a strong endorsement. Instead, acknowledge the narrow margin and potential challenges associated with it. It's essential to convey that the backing isn't universally robust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited majority" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it modifies the noun "majority", specifying the extent or degree of the majority. It signifies that the majority exists, but it's not substantial or overwhelming.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a limited majority" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a situation where a majority exists but is not overwhelming or decisive. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is often used in contexts related to science, news and media, and business, where precise communication is crucial. Alternative phrases like "a narrow majority" or "a slim majority" can be used to convey similar meanings. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context and avoid overstating the strength of the majority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A narrow majority

Indicates the majority is small, with few votes or members on the winning side.

A slim majority

Similar to "narrow", suggesting a small margin of victory.

A slight majority

Emphasizes the small degree by which the majority was achieved.

A bare majority

Implies the majority is the smallest possible number to still be a majority.

Marginal majority

Highlights the unstable or uncertain nature of such a majority.

A paper-thin majority

Figuratively emphasizes the fragility and vulnerability of the majority.

A simple majority

Refers to a majority where more than half of the votes are in favor, without requiring any higher threshold.

Qualified majority

Means a majority greater than a simple majority, often requiring a specific percentage like two-thirds.

Relative majority

Describes a situation where one option receives more votes than any other single option, but not necessarily more than half of all votes.

Working majority

A majority that is large enough to reliably pass legislation or achieve other goals.

FAQs

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

You can use "a limited majority" to describe situations where a decision or proposal passed, but the support wasn't overwhelming. For example: "The new policy was approved by a limited majority, suggesting significant opposition remained."

What's a good alternative to "a limited majority"?

Alternatives include "a narrow majority", "a slim majority", or "a slight majority", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something passes with "a limited majority"?

It signifies that while more than half supported the measure, the margin of victory wasn't large, indicating potential instability or ongoing contention. It may also suggest that implementation could face resistance.

Is there a risk of misinterpreting "a limited majority"?

Yes, presenting it as a strong mandate can be misleading. A "a limited majority" implies significant dissent or reservations, so it's crucial to provide context and avoid overstating the level of support.