a narrow set of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow set of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a group of limited options or choices. For example, "When it comes to selecting a car, I have a narrow set of criteria that I'm looking for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Courts have cautioned that implied consent applies only in a narrow set of cases.

Harvard University

Most online communities for children limit participants to a narrow set of responses and actions.

Princeton University

Proposition 227 prohibited school districts from offering bilingual education except under a narrow set of circumstances.

Stanford University

Some people rely on a narrow set of cues, some on a much broader range.

Harvard Business Review

From a narrow set of experiences, they form their preferences, expectations, and insights.

Harvard Business Review

These newspapers, always players to the gallery, portray only a narrow set of values and interests.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are focused on a narrow set of products under their purview.

Harvard Business Review

The CPD also keeps the debates within a narrow set of issues determined by party bosses.

The Guardian - Opinion

"If your job requires a narrow set of duties, then indeed your employment is at risk".

The Guardian

score can be important for some, the test measures a narrow set of skills.

The New York Times

After changing you walk down a narrow set of stairs to the baths.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow set of", ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes the boundary or limitation. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the intended scope.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow set of" when the selection is actually quite diverse or broad. This can mislead the reader and weaken the impact of your statement. Ensure the 'narrowness' is genuine and justifiable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow set of" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a limited or restricted group of items or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

31%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a narrow set of" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote a limited or restricted group of items or concepts. As verified by Ludwig AI, it functions as a determiner phrase, specifying a boundary or limitation. The phrase is appropriate for various contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives like "a limited range of" or "a restricted selection of" exist, the choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use the phrase accurately to avoid misleading your audience and maintain clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited range of

Focuses on restricting the variety or extent within a specific spectrum.

a restricted selection of

Highlights the idea that the choices are controlled and not freely available.

a small collection of

Emphasizes the diminutive size of the group, rather than its limitations.

a concise assortment of

Highlights a careful and efficient selection, often implying quality over quantity.

a finite number of

Stresses that the quantity is countable and not infinite.

a select group of

Indicates that the items or members are chosen specifically, often based on certain criteria.

a controlled variety of

Focuses on the regulation and management of the diversity within the set.

a curated list of

Suggests that the items have been carefully chosen and arranged, often by an expert.

a specific subset of

Highlights that the items are a distinct portion of a larger group.

a particular category of

Implies that items belong to a distinct grouping with specific characteristics.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a narrow set of" in a sentence?

Use "a narrow set of" to indicate limitations, restrictions, or a specific focus. For instance, "The study examined "a narrow set of" economic indicators to assess the country's financial health".

What are some alternatives to "a narrow set of"?

You can use alternatives like "a limited range of", "a restricted selection of", or "a small collection of" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a narrow set of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a narrow set of" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to indicate limitations or specific focuses in academic, business, and technical contexts.

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

While similar, "a narrow set of" often implies a stricter or more constrained boundary than "a limited set of". The choice depends on the degree of restriction you want to emphasize.