a narrow slice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow slice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or limited portion of something, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The report provides a narrow slice of the overall data, focusing only on the last quarter's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Instead, Harbingers buy things that appeal to a narrow slice of the marketplace.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Critics of the state tests have said that they measure a narrow slice of the curriculum.

The New York Times

In California, however, the range of workers affected by 2016 falls within a $0.15 range — a narrow slice of earners.

The Washington Post

Also, the samples previously analyzed represented only a narrow slice of the population at different points in individual careers.

The New York Times

Like farmers' markets and organic grocery stores, museums and design conferences tend to attract a narrow slice of the world.

The New Yorker

Algorithms designed to dish up the news and information we most prefer end up blinkering us to all but a narrow slice of political and social reality.

The New York Times - Books

In general, the bridal market is a narrow slice of the larger consumer picture, and that has made some companies wary.

The New York Times

But of course, while the stories are true, the book is still a narrow slice of the political reality of the 1990s.

The Washington Post

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Transportation, which declined to comment on California's rules, has focused most of its efforts on a narrow slice of robotic safety.

The Washington Post

Talking to students at Ohio's Kenyon College – Comey's alma mater - he said: "We have a tool that works on a narrow slice of iPhones.

The Guardian - Tech

Possibilities and Alarms Most overseas campuses offer only a narrow slice of American higher education, most often programs in business, science, engineering and computers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow slice", consider the connotations. It can suggest exclusivity, limitation, or even a skewed perspective, depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow slice" when the portion is actually substantial or representative of the whole. It should accurately reflect a truly limited segment, not a major or significant portion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow slice" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows it's utilized to denote a restricted or limited segment of something larger. As seen in the examples, it modifies nouns, defining them more precisely.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a narrow slice" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a small or limited portion of something. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that it accurately reflects the limited scope being described. Alternatives like "a limited portion" or "a small segment" can be used for similar effect. Understanding its communicative purpose and avoiding overgeneralization are key to effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited portion

Emphasizes the restriction in quantity or scope.

a small segment

Highlights the idea of a piece or section being small.

a tiny fraction

Stresses the insignificance of the part relative to the whole.

a restricted subset

Focuses on the limitation and the set-like nature of the portion.

a minimal share

Indicates a very small allocation or part.

a thin sliver

Implies a very small and narrow portion, often visually.

a select few

Highlights the exclusivity and limited number.

a small component

Focuses on the part being a constituent of a larger whole.

a limited selection

Emphasizes the constrained choice available.

a fractional piece

Stresses the idea of a portion being a small part of a whole.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrow slice" to describe a small or limited portion of something. For example, "The study examined "a narrow slice" of the data, focusing only on urban areas."

What are some alternatives to "a narrow slice"?

Alternatives include "a limited portion", "a small segment", or "a tiny fraction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a narrow slice" or "a small part"?

"A narrow slice" often implies a more specific or restricted selection than "a small part". The best choice depends on the context and the intended emphasis. Consider alternatives such as "a limited selection" or "a fractional piece".

When is "a narrow slice" an inappropriate phrase to use?

It's inappropriate when the portion being described is not actually small or limited. For instance, avoid saying ""a narrow slice" of the population" if you're referring to a majority or a significant segment.