a scant selection of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a scant selection of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limited or insufficient variety of items or options available. Example: "The store offered a scant selection of books, leaving many customers disappointed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Frank has published only a scant selection of pictures from that journey.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But while those festivals this year supplied a surprisingly scant selection of contenders, Tuesday's programme announcements for this year's Toronto film festival suggests a flood is coming.

The Guardian - Film

WINE LIST -- A scant list of fewer than 25, mainly California selections, priced from $20 to $70.

The New York Times

A scant handful of minor critiques have been reflected.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even a scant crop of peas was passed around the conference room table as a snack.

The New York Times - Food

There are toppings listed on a chalkboard, along with a scant menu of wines and beer.

The New York Times - Food

In spite of the VAT, government revenue is a scant 11% of GDP.

The Economist

Online giving accounts for a scant 7% of gifts, and just 1% arrive by text message.

The Economist

For now, a scant 0.5% of the billions of e-mails sent every day are encrypted.

Forbes

By the end of 1993 IBM had secured a scant 3.6% of the desktop market.

Forbes

The team represents a scant 4% of his $22.5 billion net worth.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a scant selection of", ensure the context clearly indicates a deficiency or limitation. The phrase is most effective when highlighting a disappointing lack of variety or quantity.

Common error

Avoid using "a scant selection of" when you simply mean "a small selection". The word 'scant' carries a negative connotation, implying inadequacy. If the small selection is adequate for the purpose, choose a more neutral phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a scant selection of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a limited or insufficient quantity or variety of something. As Ludwig AI explains, it implies inadequacy and is used to describe a selection that is less than desirable or expected.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a scant selection of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes a limited or insufficient choice. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and suggests alternative phrases like "a limited number of" or "a small amount of". While the phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media, it's important to use it deliberately to convey the connotation of inadequacy. Therefore, carefully consider the context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited number of

Focuses on the numerical limitation rather than the perceived inadequacy of choice.

a small amount of

Emphasizes the quantity is low, applicable to tangible or intangible things.

a restricted choice of

Highlights the constraint on the available options.

a narrow range of

Indicates that the scope or extent of the selection is limited.

a meager assortment of

Suggests that the collection is not only small but also poor in quality.

a sparse array of

Implies that the items are thinly scattered and not plentiful.

a paltry few

Stresses the insignificance and worthlessness of the number.

a trifling quantity of

Conveys that the amount is so small as to be almost negligible.

a shadow of a selection

Uses metaphorical language to illustrate how deficient and inadequate the selection is.

a bare minimum of

Highlights that only the absolute essential is present, implying deficiency.

FAQs

How can I use "a scant selection of" in a sentence?

You can use "a scant selection of" to describe a limited or insufficient variety of items or options. For example: "The menu offered "a scant selection of" vegetarian dishes."

What can I say instead of "a scant selection of"?

You can use alternatives like "a limited number of", "a small amount of", or "a restricted choice of", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a scant selection of"?

Use "a scant selection of" when you want to emphasize that there is a disappointing lack of variety or quantity. It implies that what is available is less than desirable or expected.

What is the tone of "a scant selection of"?

The phrase carries a negative tone, suggesting that the available choices are inadequate or insufficient. It is more critical than simply saying "a small selection".