a mere fraction of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a mere fraction of" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize that something is a small or insignificant portion of something else. Example: "Our budget for the project is only a mere fraction of what we had originally planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Still, that number is a mere fraction of the total population eligible to apply for naturalization.

The New York Times

I'm going to pay double Romney's rate on a mere fraction of his income.

The New York Times

But this is said to be a mere fraction of the money that went missing.

The Economist

She derided the offers of compensation, a mere fraction of the market value.

The New York Times

Naturally, even with these imports -- a mere fraction of the show -- "The Global Guggenheim" doesn't look global.

The New York Times - Arts

An unnamed Sky source was quoted as saying Gray's payout "really is a mere fraction of the £4m".

The Guardian - Sport

Louis died broke; Tyson is working on it; Ali has hung onto a mere fraction of the profits he generated.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

This would support about 10,000 scientists--a mere fraction of those on institute rolls.

Science Magazine

Imagine the effect on learning if a mere fraction of the game player's thrill could be imparted to students learning mathematics, or history, or a foreign language.

The New York Times

The $86,000 cost of AIG's shooting party came to a mere fraction of that total.

Forbes

Yet, even that is a comparatively small problem, for art acquisitions represent a mere fraction of the Louvre outlay.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a mere fraction of" to emphasize how small something is compared to a larger whole, particularly when highlighting a disparity or inadequacy. For instance, "The aid provided was a mere fraction of what was needed."

Common error

Avoid using "a mere fraction of" when the portion, while small, is still consequential or impactful. Using it in such cases can diminish the real importance of what you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mere fraction of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun represents a small or insignificant part of a larger whole. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mere fraction of" is a versatile phrase used to underscore the smallness or insignificance of a part compared to its whole. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "a small portion of" or "a tiny percentage of" exist, "mere" adds a crucial layer of emphasis, often implying disappointment or inadequacy. Therefore, use this phrase when you want to highlight a notable disparity, but avoid it when the small portion still holds considerable importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small portion of

Emphasizes the limited quantity or extent, similar to "a mere fraction of" but without the added sense of insignificance.

a tiny percentage of

Highlights the very low proportion relative to the whole, quantifying the smallness.

only a sliver of

Implies a thin or narrow piece, suggesting something barely noticeable.

a negligible amount of

Focuses on the insignificance of the quantity, suggesting it can be disregarded.

an insignificant part of

Stresses the unimportance of the portion in relation to the entirety.

a drop in the bucket compared to

Uses a metaphor to illustrate the vast difference in size or quantity.

a grain of sand in

Uses a metaphor to represent the small portion into something larger, or immense.

a limited quantity of

Focuses on the constraint and scarcity of something, it is useful when something is limited but can be useful.

a modicum of

Implies the presence of a very small quantity or degree of something, often desirable or necessary.

a shadow of

Metaphorically used to represent something that is now substantially reduced from its former state or size.

FAQs

How can I use "a mere fraction of" in a sentence?

You can use "a mere fraction of" to emphasize the smallness or insignificance of a portion compared to the whole. For example, "A mere fraction of the budget was allocated to marketing."

What are some alternatives to "a mere fraction of"?

Some alternatives to "a mere fraction of" include "a small portion of", "a tiny percentage of", or "a negligible amount of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a mere fraction of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a mere fraction of" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize that something is surprisingly or disappointingly small in comparison to what's expected or available. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "a small fraction of" and "a mere fraction of"?

While both phrases indicate a small portion, "a mere fraction of" adds an element of insignificance or inadequacy. Using "mere" emphasizes that the small portion is surprisingly or disappointingly small. Consider "a small portion of", "a tiny percentage of", or "a negligible amount of" to convey this nuance.