a little quantity of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little quantity of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small amount of something, often in a more formal or descriptive context. Example: "The recipe calls for a little quantity of salt to enhance the flavor of the dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

However, a little quantity of protein was produced by cells that were not exposed to Hg2+.

AMB Express

A little quantity of filtered water was then included and the jug substance vibrated to evacuate trapped air.

Applied Adhesion Science

A little quantity of these minerals originates from soil, water, air, and rocks.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Little quantity of hydrocarbon sesquiterpene (0.2%) and oxygenated sesquiterpene (0.8%) was also detected.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Little quantity of vermiculite was observed in just one sample area (BD_D).

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

Harlequin &c., as indicative of Christmas, weep over the little quantity of yours... and others in the background are plainly showing that it was not for want of paper".

Huffington Post

The phage treated mice group showed the normal architecture with little quantity of regeneration of focal areas of hemorrhages).

BioMed Research International

They had a little more grass and a small quantity of flour, which was kept wrapped in a swatch of burlap.

The New York Times - Magazine

Combining Taq polymerase with a small quantity of Pfu polymerase [ 12] had little effect on the S/N.

BMC Biotechnology

Selling a large quantity of diluted cocaine powder, or a small quantity of pure cocaine?

The Guardian - Opinion

The obtained samples comprised a thickness between 100 and 600 nm and a low internal stress when little quantities of metal were incorporated.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little quantity of" when you want to sound slightly more formal or descriptive than simply saying "a small amount of". Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a little quantity of" in informal contexts where it might sound pretentious or overly verbose. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a bit of" or "a little" for everyday conversations and casual writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little quantity of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun. It modifies a noun by indicating that the amount being referred to is small. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use across various domains, reinforcing its function as a quantifier.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a little quantity of" is a grammatically sound and relatively formal way to express a small amount. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usage across diverse fields like science, news, and general knowledge. While less common than simpler alternatives such as "a small amount of", it adds a degree of precision to your writing. Remember to reserve it for contexts where a more descriptive or slightly formal tone is desired to avoid sounding overly pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minimal quantity of

Emphasizes the extremely small size of the quantity.

a small amount of

A more common and slightly less formal way to express the same idea.

a touch of

Suggests adding something subtly, often used in cooking or art.

a hint of

Similar to "a touch of", but can also refer to intangible things like a hint of sadness.

a trace of

Indicates a very small, almost undetectable amount.

a smidgen of

An informal term for a very small amount, often used humorously.

a dash of

Typically used for liquids or powders that are sprinkled or added quickly.

a modicum of

A more formal and somewhat archaic way to say a small amount.

a trickle of

Implies a very slow and continuous small flow or supply.

a soupçon of

Borrowed from French, it implies a very small amount, often used in culinary contexts.

FAQs

What does "a little quantity of" mean?

The phrase "a little quantity of" refers to a small amount of something. It's a slightly more formal way of saying "a small amount of" or "a bit of".

When is it appropriate to use "a little quantity of"?

Use "a little quantity of" in formal writing or when you want to sound descriptive. In casual conversations, simpler phrases like "a bit of" or "a little" are often more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "a little quantity of"?

Alternatives include "a small amount of", "a bit of", "a touch of", or "a hint of", depending on the context. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a little quantity of" the same as "a small quantity of"?

Yes, "a little quantity of" and "a small quantity of" are very similar in meaning. "A small quantity of" is generally more common and less formal.