a narrower set

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrower set" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a more limited or specific group within a larger category. Example: "In this study, we focused on a narrower set of variables to ensure more accurate results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

But in practice, it's a narrower set.

The New York Times

The tests demanded a deeper understanding of a narrower set of topics and analysis previously reserved for higher grades.

The New York Times

But General Marsuki Darusman, Indonesia's attorney general, has focused on a narrower set of allegations involving seven tax-free foundations under Mr. Suharto's control.

The New York Times

The pursuit of blockbusters by big publishers and retailers means that potential readers are exposed to a narrower set of titles.

The New York Times

Ryan Brenner, College of Law, Michigan State University, US To pave the way for continued development and economic growth for the world's poorer countries, a narrower set of measurable development targets is needed.

The Guardian

The right to privacy puts textualists on the spot; if you really believe only in the rights specifically enumerated in the Constitution, that's a narrower set of rights than most Americans believe they have and value.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Some Asian actors, he said, spend a lifetime confined to a narrow set of roles.

The New Yorker

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

The Guardian

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

The Guardian - Opinion

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

Use "a narrower set" to clearly indicate a specific and limited selection from a larger group or range. This enhances precision in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrower set" when a more specific term would be more appropriate. For instance, instead of "a narrower set of problems", consider stating "specific problems" to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrower set" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically acting as a pre-modifier to a noun (e.g., "allegations", "titles", "targets"). It specifies and limits the scope of the noun it modifies. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is valid and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrower set" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a specific limitation from a broader range, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is found across diverse sources, including news, science, and business, making it suitable for neutral to professional registers. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a reduction or specification of items within a category. For scenarios that demand alternatives, options such as "a more limited group" or "a more focused selection" may enhance clarity. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, avoid overgeneralization and opt for more precise terms when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more limited group

Emphasizes the restriction in size or scope of the group being considered.

a smaller subset

Highlights that the group is a part of a larger whole, but reduced in size.

a more restricted range

Focuses on the limited scope or extent of options or possibilities.

a more focused selection

Suggests a deliberate choice of specific items, omitting others.

a refined collection

Implies a careful curation to remove less desirable or relevant elements.

a reduced number

Directly indicates a decrease in quantity or count.

a curtailed assortment

Suggests that something has been deliberately cut short or reduced.

a selective inventory

Emphasizes a specific choice of items over others.

a trimmed array

Highlights the removal of excess or unwanted items.

a concise compilation

Implies a collection that has been made shorter and more to the point.

FAQs

How can I use "a narrower set" in a sentence?

You can use "a narrower set" to indicate a more limited or specific group within a larger category. For example, "The study focused on "a narrower set" of risk factors to improve the accuracy of the results".

What can I say instead of "a narrower set"?

You can use alternatives like "a more limited group", "a smaller subset", or "a more focused selection" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a more narrow set" instead of "a narrower set"?

While "narrow" can be modified by "more", "narrower" is generally preferred for conciseness and naturalness. "A narrower set" is the more idiomatic choice.

What's the difference between "a narrower set" and "a specific set"?

"A narrower set" implies a reduction or limitation from a larger group, while "a specific set" simply denotes a particular, well-defined group without necessarily implying a prior reduction. Consider the sentence “The investigation is on "a narrower set" of potential causes”, versus a “"a specific set" of conditions”.