a marginal proportion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a marginal proportion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or insignificant part of a whole in various contexts, such as statistics or research findings. Example: "In the survey results, only a marginal proportion of respondents indicated that they were satisfied with the service."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Formal & Business

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

To date, 38 genetic loci with common SNPs associated with migraine have been discovered [6], where the individual SNP only explains a marginal proportion of the genetic variance.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

IVD represents a marginal proportion of the transmissions in the total population.

BMC Infectious Diseases

A marginal proportion of flowering stems exhibited <15 phytomers (1 % for 'AOPH10', including main stems and Axis-2 branches).

AoB PLANTS

The 90% threshold, however, is not clinically meaningful in assessing the quality of care as only a marginal proportion of patients with a milder disease can be identified.

BMC Family Practice

Formal enrolment of patients with physicians is relatively new, and patient enrolment payments represent only a marginal proportion of physicians' income in Quebec.

BMC Family Practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Proactive strategies are needed, especially in countries where the 12-step based treatment units are only a small or marginal proportion of the treatment system, and where there is a less knowledge of TSGs in the professional work force.

BMC Health Services Research

However, a marginal higher proportion of methylated DNA among HLA-DRB1*1501 heterozygous MS patients with malignant phenotype compared to the benign one was detected.

Autoimmunity Highlights

While overall this may explain only a marginal additional proportion of infections, it is likely to underestimate the total number of children infected with HIV in some countries.

AIDS

When only one marginal proportion is known, the appropriate p-value is also needed.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

The ratio of the observed proportion of symptom pairs relative to the product of the marginal proportion of each symptom is defined as the excess probability ratio which measures effect size.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Again the results show biased estimates using complete case analysis and MI under MAR for both the marginal proportion of the partially observed outcome and the measure of association.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a marginal proportion", ensure the context clearly indicates what the proportion is a part of. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a marginal proportion" when the quantity is actually substantial. This diminishes the impact of significant data, leading to misinterpretation. Choose a more accurate descriptor if the proportion is more than just marginal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a marginal proportion" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It specifies the quantity or extent of something, indicating that it is small and relatively unimportant. Ludwig provides real-world examples of its usage in academic and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a marginal proportion" is a phrase used to describe a small and relatively insignificant portion of a whole. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and most frequently encountered in scientific and formal contexts. When writing, ensure the context aligns with this meaning to avoid misrepresentation. Consider using alternatives like "a small percentage" or "a minor fraction" for similar effect. While not extremely common, its usage is clear and well-defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small percentage

Focuses specifically on percentage rather than a general proportion.

a minor fraction

Emphasizes the fractional aspect of the small amount.

a negligible amount

Highlights the insignificance of the quantity.

a tiny portion

Uses more descriptive and informal language.

an insignificant quantity

Highlights the lack of importance of the amount.

a slim fraction

Uses the word 'slim' to emphasize the smallness of the fraction.

a trivial amount

Indicates that the amount is so small it's not worth considering.

a minimal share

Emphasizes the 'share' aspect, as opposed to the overall quantity.

a slight degree

Shifts focus to a gradual change or extent rather than a fixed quantity.

a limited quantity

Focuses on the restricted amount available.

FAQs

How can I use "a marginal proportion" in a sentence?

You can use "a marginal proportion" to describe a small or insignificant part of a whole. For example, "Only a marginal proportion of the budget was allocated to marketing."

What phrases are similar to "a marginal proportion"?

Similar phrases include "a small percentage", "a minor fraction", or "a negligible amount".

Is it appropriate to use "a marginal proportion" in formal writing?

Yes, "a marginal proportion" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific or business contexts where precise language is important.

What's the difference between "a marginal proportion" and "a significant proportion"?

"A marginal proportion" indicates a small, often unimportant amount, while "a significant proportion" suggests a large, notable amount. The choice depends on the actual size and importance of the proportion you're describing.