Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a minimal distance
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a minimal distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the smallest possible space or gap between two points or objects. Example: "To ensure safety, the two machines must be placed at a minimal distance from each other."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
Therefore, a regularization procedure was added to ensure correct sorting and a minimal distance of 50 Hz between LSFs.
In this report, we employ a minimal Distance Constraint Model (mDCM) to investigate stability/flexibility relationships of four homologous bPBPs.
Science
The segmentation is obtained by considering some features functions, where linear and non-linear discriminant functions and a minimal distance method are used.
Stability of the solution is guaranteed by constraints that ensure a minimal distance between the nominal operating point and a stability boundary in the space of uncertain parameters.
Science
Numerous quantitative stability/flexibility relationships, within Escherichia coli thioredoxin (Trx) and its fragments are determined using a minimal distance constraint model (DCM).
Science
This problem can be solved by the use of new click modifiers presenting a minimal distance between the fragment and the click function.
Subscriber user-equipment (UE) locations can be simulated using a regular PPP, due to the fact that a minimal distance between users cannot be expected.
Given a moving query object q, a minimal distance dm, and a maximal distance dM, a CM2DBQ retrieves the bounded objects whose road distances to q are within the range [dm,dM] at each time instant.
Science
With a newly defined function space A∞, it was claimed that the set of all L∞-bounded outputs could be parameterized and that the problem could be transformed to a minimal distance problem on L∞ space.
Science
The optimization based approach – denoted constructive nonlinear dynamics (CNLD) – is based on constraints that enforce a minimal distance in the space of the uncertain parameters between a stability boundary and the optimal solution.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
1 human-written examples
In contrast, another study in the ground squirrel found that rods and S-cones maintain a 'minimal distance' between cells of the same type which is constant throughout the retina, independent of cell density and specific to each cell type [26].
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing technical specifications or safety requirements, clearly define what constitutes "a minimal distance" by providing a specific measurement or range to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "a minimal distance" without specifying the units of measurement. Saying "maintain a minimal distance" is less effective than stating "maintain a minimal distance of 1 meter".
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a minimal distance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as an object of a preposition or a component of a larger clause specifying a requirement or constraint. Ludwig shows its use across varied scientific contexts.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "a minimal distance" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the smallest acceptable separation between objects or points. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's prevalent in scientific and technical contexts where precision is important. When using this phrase, ensure you specify units of measurement to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "a negligible distance" or "a very short distance" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Always define "a minimal distance" with clear, specific measurements when safety or functionality is paramount.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a negligible distance
Replaces "minimal" with "negligible", emphasizing the insignificance of the distance.
a very short distance
Uses "very short" to describe the distance, focusing on its small length.
a close proximity
Substitutes "distance" with "proximity", highlighting the closeness of the objects.
a tiny gap
Replaces "distance" with "gap", specifying the space between objects.
a slight separation
Uses "slight separation" to describe a small amount of space between objects.
a hairline space
Emphasizes the extremely small nature of the space using the metaphor of a "hairline".
an infinitesimal distance
Uses "infinitesimal" to denote an immeasurably small distance.
a microscopic gap
Relates the gap's size to the microscopic scale, highlighting its tininess.
a reduced distance
Focuses on the act of reducing the distance, implying it was once larger.
a conservative spacing
Suggests a safety margin in the minimal distance, implying a deliberate choice.
FAQs
How can I use "a minimal distance" in a sentence?
You can use "a minimal distance" to describe the smallest acceptable or required separation between objects or points, as in "The safety regulations require "a minimal distance" of 2 meters between the machines".
What's the difference between "a minimal distance" and "a maximum distance"?
"A minimal distance" refers to the shortest acceptable space between two points, while "a maximum distance" indicates the furthest acceptable separation. They define the lower and upper limits of an acceptable range.
What can I say instead of "a minimal distance"?
You can use alternatives like "a negligible distance", "a very short distance", or "a close proximity" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.
In what contexts is it most important to specify "a minimal distance"?
Specifying "a minimal distance" is crucial in contexts where safety, efficiency, or functionality depend on maintaining a certain degree of separation, such as in construction, manufacturing, or healthcare.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested