a narrow range

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow range" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe a limited or small set of options or possibilities. Some examples of when it can be used include: - "The doctor said I have a narrow range of food options due to my allergies." - "The company offers a narrow range of products but they are all high quality." - "The author's writing style is versatile, she can write about a narrow range of topics with equal skill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But a narrow range brought diminishing returns.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet Roth sees sexuality from a narrow range of angles.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Jerusalem's tenor operates comfortably within a narrow range.

The New York Times - Arts

"I have such a narrow range of concentration".

The New York Times

In the equity markets, stocks wavered within a narrow range.

The New York Times

These mechanisms maintain serum testosterone concentrations within a narrow range.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We are not able to predict our business within a narrow range for each quarter.

The New York Times

Do you think that we restrict ourselves to a narrow range of reality?

The Guardian

They tend to reflect a narrow range of predominantly conservative opinion.

The Guardian - Opinion

We also find a convergence around a narrow range of issues in all media.

The Guardian

Most Hon Members are university-educated and from a narrow range of places and occupations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow range", ensure the context clearly defines what is being limited. For example, specify "a narrow range of options" or "a narrow range of temperatures".

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow range" without specifying what is being limited. Saying something has "a narrow range" without further context can be vague and uninformative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow range" typically functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun it modifies is limited or restricted in scope. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrow range" is a versatile phrase used to denote a limited or constrained scope, selection, or interval. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It appears frequently in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its adaptability across diverse registers. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what exactly is being limited to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "a limited scope" or "a restricted spectrum" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "a narrow range" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited scope

Focuses on the extent or breadth being restricted.

a restricted spectrum

Emphasizes the limited variety or types within the range.

a confined selection

Highlights the limited choices available.

a small subset

Indicates a smaller portion of a larger group or set.

a tight boundary

Suggests strict limits or borders.

a finite set

Focuses on the limited and countable nature of the items.

a reduced quantity

Emphasizes the small amount or number.

a concise extent

Highlights the brevity or compactness of the range.

a precise margin

Suggests a very accurate and defined limit.

a selected few

Focuses on the exclusivity and limited number of items.

FAQs

How can I use "a narrow range" in a sentence?

You can use "a narrow range" to describe limitations in options, values, or characteristics. For example, "The study focused on "a narrow range" of income levels" or "The plant can only survive within "a narrow range" of temperatures".

What are some alternatives to "a narrow range"?

Some alternatives include "a limited scope", "a restricted spectrum", or "a confined selection", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a narrow range of" or should I use another preposition?

The phrase is almost always followed by the preposition "of". The phrasing "a narrow range of" is the most idiomatic and grammatically correct way to use the phrase.

What's the difference between "a narrow range" and "a limited range"?

While similar, "a narrow range" emphasizes the small size of the interval, while "a limited range" focuses on the constraint or restriction. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the smallness or the restriction.