a perceptible amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a perceptible amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a quantity that is noticeable or can be detected, often in scientific or analytical contexts. Example: "The experiment showed that there was a perceptible amount of change in the temperature after the reaction occurred."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A tablespoon of water more or less can shift the extracted solids by a perceptible amount.

The New York Times - Food

"It seems silly, debating decimals," Mr. Hoffmann said, "but it makes a big difference to the flavor". A tablespoon of water more or less can shift the extracted solids by a perceptible amount.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Semantics is non-incremental (currently), but in the languages supported does not take any perceptible amount of time (less than 20-30 ms on average).

University of California, Berkeley

Our current experimental results have indicated that, despite a perceptible decrease in the amount of the predominant isoform of cardiac adenylyl cyclase (AC5) between ED12 and ED18, the enzyme activity of AC is relatively stable in the course of chick embryo development, which is in line with some earlier findings [ 20, 21].

BioMed Research International

We attempted to translate this benefit into a perceptible public health measure.

BMC Infectious Diseases

It is the amount of increase in elongation necessary to elicit a perceptible change in elongation.

Attention, Perception & Psychophysics

In order for a perceptible degree of crystallization to take place, there must be a finite amount of "supercooling" below the freezing point b (which is also the melting point, Tm, of the corresponding crystal).

Encyclopedia Britannica

We have noticed a perceptible dip in forward fares".

Independent

The Yaris has developed a perceptible rattle in the engine.

The Guardian

For ordinary Afghans there will be a perceptible decline in security.

The Guardian - Opinion

Without enzymes, many of these reactions would not take place at a perceptible rate.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a perceptible amount" when you want to emphasize that something is noticeable or detectable, but not necessarily large or significant.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a perceptible amount" sounds formal. In casual conversations, consider alternatives like "a noticeable bit" or "a little bit" for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a perceptible amount" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the amount in question is noticeable or detectable through the senses or through measurement. Ludwig AI states that it is used to describe a quantity that is noticeable or can be detected.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a perceptible amount" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a quantity that is noticeable or detectable. According to Ludwig AI, it is primarily used in scientific and analytical contexts. While its frequency is relatively rare, it appears consistently in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. The phrase conveys a sense of quantifiable presence, fitting for contexts where precision is valued. Consider using it to add a touch of formality and accuracy to your writing, especially when describing changes or quantities that are not necessarily large but are certainly noticeable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a noticeable quantity

Focuses on the ease with which the amount can be noticed.

a detectable quantity

Highlights the ability to detect the amount through measurement or observation.

a measurable quantity

Emphasizes the ability to quantify the amount.

an appreciable amount

Suggests the amount is significant enough to be worth considering.

a considerable quantity

Indicates the amount is large or important.

a significant amount

Highlights the importance or impact of the amount.

a tangible amount

Focuses on the concreteness or realness of the amount.

an observable quantity

Stresses the ability to observe the amount directly.

a discernible amount

Emphasizes the clarity with which the amount can be distinguished.

a trivial amount

Indicates the amount is small and insignificant. (Opposite meaning)

FAQs

How can I use "a perceptible amount" in a sentence?

You can use "a perceptible amount" to describe a quantity that is noticeable or detectable. For instance, "There was "a perceptible amount" of change in the patient's condition after the medication was administered."

What's the difference between "a perceptible amount" and "a significant amount"?

"A perceptible amount" implies that something is noticeable, while "a significant amount" suggests that it is important or impactful. The former focuses on detectability, the latter on consequence.

Which is more appropriate, "a perceptible amount" or "a noticeable amount"?

Both "a perceptible amount" and "a noticeable amount" are appropriate and interchangeable. The choice depends on the desired tone and context, with "a perceptible amount" leaning towards formality.

What are some alternatives to saying "a perceptible amount"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a noticeable quantity", "a detectable quantity", or "an appreciable amount".