a narrow subset

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow subset" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, limited portion of a larger group or category. Example: "In our research, we focused on a narrow subset of data that was most relevant to our hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Propofol, it seems, forced the brain into a narrow subset of those pathways.

MIT Technology Review

He said he expected a "narrow subset" of agency documents to be classified, those relating to bioterrorism and the nation's preparedness to respond to it.

The New York Times

Other properties prone to purgatory include walk-ups — particularly those on the upper floors, which are typically coveted by only a narrow subset of buyers.

The New York Times

When right-wing politicians and extreme libertarians embrace an anti-government vision, they reduce the appeal of their message to a narrow subset of the electorate.

The Washington Post

Many conservation strategies identify a narrow subset of genotypes, species, or geographic locations that are predicted to be favored under different scenarios of future climate change.

Trends in Ecology & Evolution

The benefits that Amazon has promised to the areas might also flow to a narrow subset of people who are already living the dream while the costs will burden everyone.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Those with a very diverse customer base may be better off taking up a more universally popular social issue, while businesses that serve a narrower subset of the population or that have a clear segment whose support is imperative could safely take a bolder stance on a more partisan issue.

Forbes

One reason for the misleading early numbers in 2006 may have been that Quinnipiac sampled all self-identified registered Democrats rather than a narrower subset of likely primary voters.

Huffington Post

Enhancer activity was restricted to a narrower subset of neurons (Fig.  7a).

BMC Genomics

The other reviews included in this paper focused on a narrower subset of the governance and accountability literature including community participation in clinic committees [ 20], community accountability mechanisms [ 6], governance approaches in human resource policy design [ 15] and the effectiveness of external supervision of health facilities [ 18].

BMC Health Services Research

In Christianity Today, McCracken writes that today's religious hipsterism is "a rather narrow subset of the faith: mostly white evangelical, mostly economically well-off".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow subset", ensure the context clearly defines the larger set from which the subset is drawn to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "a narrow subset of users", specify "a narrow subset of users who actively engage with the platform".

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow subset" when referring to a small but ill-defined group. Ensure the subset possesses distinct characteristics that warrant its classification as a separate and identifiable portion. For example, don't say "a narrow subset of problems" if you cannot specify the attributes of that group of problems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow subset" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that only a small, specifically defined portion of a larger group is being considered. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrow subset" is a phrase used to describe a specific and limited portion of a larger group. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains. It's particularly frequent in scientific and news contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by defining the broader set and the distinguishing characteristics of the subset. Alternatives like "a limited selection" or "a small segment" can be used depending on the intended emphasis. By being mindful of these aspects, you can effectively use "a narrow subset" to convey precision and focus in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited selection

Focuses on the aspect of choice and restriction in what is available.

a small segment

Emphasizes the idea of the subset being a portion or division of something larger.

a restricted group

Highlights the exclusivity and limitation of the group in question.

a specific portion

Draws attention to the defined and particular nature of the part being considered.

a particular segment

Underscores the distinctiveness and focus on a certain section.

a select few

Implies a level of exclusivity or higher standard for inclusion.

a finite number

Emphasizes the limited and countable nature of the items in the group.

a small fraction

Highlights the small proportion of the subset compared to the whole.

a concentrated sample

Suggests the subset is a representative collection, focused and not broadly dispersed.

a precise segment

Highlights the exact and well-defined nature of the section.

FAQs

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

Use "a narrow subset" to refer to a specific, limited portion of a larger group. For instance, "The study focused on "a narrow subset" of the population with specific genetic markers".

What are some alternatives to using "a narrow subset"?

Alternatives include "a limited selection", "a small segment", or "a restricted group", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a narrow subset" or "a small subset"?

Both "a narrow subset" and "a small subset" are correct, but "a narrow subset" implies a more specific and defined portion, while "a small subset" simply indicates a quantity.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a narrow subset"?

It's appropriate when you need to emphasize that you're referring to a specifically defined group within a larger set. For example, "The marketing campaign targeted "a narrow subset" of consumers interested in sustainable products".