a minor fraction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a minor fraction' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a small proportion or percentage. For example, "The region saw a minor fraction of rain last month."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Human activity is likely only a minor fraction at best.

University of California, Berkeley

Sequencing would however represent a minor fraction of the total cost.

Nature

The actual measurement represents only a minor fraction of a COLTRIMS-like experiment.

Journal of Electron Spectroscopy and Related Phenomena

Glycoproteins and a minor fraction of α-1,3-glucans form a highly dynamic shell coating the cell wall surface.

Nature

The bulk of hair is proteinaceous in nature, with the structural lipids and other materials representing only a minor fraction.

Harvard University

Additionally, a minor fraction of interface was detected arising from heterogeneous molecular packing.

Polymer

The remaining one third that came out of use has been mostly landfilled, with only a minor fraction being recycled.

Resources, Conservation and Recycling

This system was modified by copolymerization with a minor fraction of a p-linked BO-incorporating diamine.

Polymer

Tm. denitrificans only represented a minor fraction of the microorganisms in the sludge (1 4% of the DAPI-stained cells).

Chemosphere

After a week in culture, cells on collagen films retained only a minor fraction of their initial rates.

Biomaterials

A minor fraction of normal adult hemoglobin consists of Hb A2, which contains α- and delta- chains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a minor fraction", ensure the context clearly indicates what the whole or total is, relative to which the fraction is minor. For example, "A minor fraction of the budget was allocated to marketing."

Common error

Avoid using "a minor fraction" when the actual percentage is significant. If the fraction is closer to 20-30%, consider using terms like "a notable portion" or "a considerable segment" instead to accurately reflect the quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor fraction" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a small or insignificant portion of a whole. It modifies a noun, indicating that the quantity is relatively small. Ludwig AI shows it being used across various domains, further solidifying its proper grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

73%

News & Media

12%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a minor fraction" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a small portion or quantity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in scientific and academic writing, with a neutral to formal register. To ensure clarity, always specify the whole when using this phrase. While alternatives like "a small portion" exist, "a minor fraction" provides a clear and effective way to downplay the significance of a component.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small portion

Focuses on the limited quantity or amount.

a tiny segment

Emphasizes the diminutive size of the part.

a limited amount

Highlights the restricted quantity available.

a negligible quantity

Indicates that the quantity is so small it can be disregarded.

a fractional part

Stresses the division into a very small component.

a trace element

Specifies that only a very small amount is present.

a scant portion

Emphasizes the meagerness of the amount.

a modicum

Refers to a small or moderate amount.

a sprinkling

Suggests a very light and sparse distribution.

an inconsiderable quantity

Highlights the insignificance of the amount.

FAQs

How can I use "a minor fraction" in a sentence?

Use "a minor fraction" to indicate a small portion or percentage of something. For example, "Only "a minor fraction" of the students passed the exam".

What are some alternatives to saying "a minor fraction"?

You can use phrases like "a small portion", "a tiny segment", or "a limited amount" as alternatives to "a minor fraction" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a minor fraction" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific and academic contexts. It clearly communicates that the amount being referred to is small relative to the whole.

What's the difference between "a minor fraction" and "a significant portion"?

"A minor fraction" indicates a small quantity or percentage, while "a significant portion" suggests a notable or substantial amount. The choice depends on the actual quantity you want to convey.