a narrow amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or limited quantity of something, often in contexts where precision or limitation is emphasized. Example: "The project budget allowed for only a narrow amount of spending on marketing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

3) Ask for a specific amount today.

The Guardian

(He settled for an undisclosed amount earlier this year).

Forbes

There was also a narrow peak in October 2003 and an increase in late 2005.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Endothermic mammals have to invest a substantial amount of energy to keep their species specific body temperature (Tb) within a narrow limit of 37 39 °C especially with changing environmental conditions1.

Nature

Republicans are defending a narrow

The Washington Post

The Spark is a narrow, lightweight car (2,269 pounds).

The Washington Post

We had a narrow two-storey 1920s Chicago building.

The Guardian - Music

That is a narrow increase over last July.

The New York Times

Republicans control the Senate by a narrow 51-49 majority.

BBC

"There is a narrow window around 4,200 feet.

Vice

An appropriate amount (0.3 1.2 ppm) of smaller droplets (80 110 μm) existing in a given space could result in successful flame formation, while larger droplets (up to 190 μm) have a relatively narrowed range of flammable conditions (0.7 0.9 ppm).

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow amount", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being measured and why the amount is considered limited or restricted. Using specific numbers or units of measurement can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow amount" when the quantity is actually substantial or irrelevant. This can create confusion and undermine the intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow amount" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a limited quantity or extent. It describes the degree to which something is restricted or small in scope. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a narrow amount" is grammatically correct but not very common. It functions as a determiner phrase to indicate a limited quantity, serving to emphasize scarcity or constraint. While Ludwig AI indicates that it is valid, users might consider more frequent alternatives like "a limited quantity" or "a small amount" to ensure clarity and impact. The phrase's register is generally neutral, suitable for various contexts although more precise language may be preferable in scientific or formal writing. Due to the absence of examples, usage patterns and authoritative sources cannot be determined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited quantity

Emphasizes the restriction on the quantity available.

a small quantity

Highlights the smallness of the amount.

a restricted amount

Focuses on the constrained nature of the amount.

a scarce amount

Suggests the amount is not readily available.

a minimal quantity

Implies the least possible amount.

a slight amount

Indicates a very small or insignificant quantity.

a negligible amount

Suggests the amount is so small it can be ignored.

a modest quantity

Implies a moderate or humble amount.

a trickle of

Metaphorically describes a very small and slow flow or amount.

a fraction of

Indicates that only a small portion is present or available.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a narrow amount" in a sentence?

Use "a narrow amount" when you want to emphasize the limited or restricted nature of a quantity. For example, "The budget allocated only "a narrow amount" for research and development".

What are some alternatives to "a narrow amount"?

You can use alternatives such as "a limited quantity", "a small amount", or "a restricted quantity" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a narrow amount" more formal or informal?

"A narrow amount" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but consider whether a more precise term (e.g., "a specific quantity") would be more appropriate in formal writing.

When should I avoid using "a narrow amount"?

Avoid using "a narrow amount" if the quantity is actually significant or if the limited nature is not relevant to the context. In such cases, simply stating the quantity may be more effective.