a minimal one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a minimal one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is small in size, amount, or degree, often in a comparative context. Example: "In terms of budget, we are looking for a minimal one that still meets our basic needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Androgen removal has a deleterious effect on the AR-positive luminal cells but a minimal one on the AR-negative basal cells.

BMC Medical Genomics

The success of supermarkets is due to many factors, but eliminating a potentially awkward social exchange is by no means a minimal one.

The Guardian - Books

Then problem (1) has a maximal solution, u*, and a minimal one, u*, in S. Proof.

Advances in Difference Equations

However the distinction between a pre-sales campaign for fans and a crowdfunding campaign to fund production is a minimal one, and mostly a difference of emphasis.

TechCrunch

An immediate consequence of this is the possibility of replacing any conditional knowledge base by a minimal one that provides the same amount of information.

Artificial Intelligence

In the above admissibility concept, the input space is a minimal one, because all the test functions belong to the space.

Advances in Difference Equations

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Such devices will comprise 68m smartwatches and 50m smart bands with no screen or with a minimal, one-line display.

The Guardian - Tech

Moreover, CNVR 10q11.22 (1) is among those 6 CNVRs with a minimal one-sided CNV-FBAT P-value ≤ 0.025 in the array-based replication analyses.

Human Molecular Genetics

To revive this, I have argued that we need to understand why the claim that science is compatible with religion is a relatively uninteresting, minimal one.

The Guardian - Opinion

In addition to contributing to earlier evidence about the benefits of the ESDM as an efficacious early intervention for toddlers with ASD, our findings also indicate that the ESDM may be effective when delivered in a group setting with preschool-aged children, with a relatively minimal one-to-one component, a finding consistent with the results of Vivanti et al. [ 15].

BMC Pediatrics

On Radio Caroline, she steps up to the plate and hits another home run (albeit a slinky, subtle, and minimal one).

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a minimal one", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being minimized. For example, "a minimal budget" or "a minimal risk" provides clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a minimal one" in overly complex sentences where its meaning can become ambiguous. Simpler phrasing might improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minimal one" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a substitute for a specific noun that has been previously mentioned or is understood from context. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a minimal one" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to denote something that is the smallest or least significant of its kind. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. It's frequently found in scientific and news-related contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context makes clear what attribute is being minimized. While "a minimal one" is generally acceptable, alternatives like "a small one" or "a basic one" may be preferable in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small one

Directly refers to the size, quantity, or extent being limited.

a limited one

Highlights restrictions or constraints on the object or concept.

a basic one

Emphasizes the fundamental or essential nature, rather than the small size or amount.

a reduced one

Focuses on the act of diminishing or lessening something.

an elementary one

Highlights the fundamental and uncomplicated nature.

a simplified one

Implies that something has been made less complex or easier to understand.

a fundamental one

Emphasizes the essential and foundational aspect.

a stripped-down one

Highlights the removal of non-essential elements.

a bare-bones one

Suggests the absence of any extras or non-essential features.

a concise one

Emphasizes brevity and lack of unnecessary details.

FAQs

How can I use "a minimal one" in a sentence?

Use "a minimal one" when referring to the smallest or least amount of something. For example, "We are aiming for a solution with "a minimal one" impact on the environment".

What's the difference between "a minimal one" and "a small one"?

"A minimal one" implies the least amount possible, while "a small one" simply indicates a reduced size or quantity without necessarily being the absolute least. The context determines which is more appropriate.

Are there contexts where I shouldn't use "a minimal one"?

While grammatically correct, "a minimal one" may sound awkward in very informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "the smallest one" or "the least one" for casual conversation.

What can I say instead of "a minimal one" to sound more professional?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "a basic one" or "a fundamental one" for a more sophisticated tone, especially if emphasizing essential aspects.