a slim fraction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slim fraction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a very small part or portion of something, often in a quantitative context. Example: "Only a slim fraction of the population participated in the survey, indicating a lack of interest in the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

There is still an independent label network but it's a slim fraction of what it was.

The Guardian - Music

Customers will also need to have a PC that can run the headset — which is only a slim fraction of those that are available.

Independent

If even a slim fraction of these people make use of Bitcoin, the digital currency's price could skyrocket.

Forbes

In 1997 he launched Valero on a spending spree, eventually grabbing 14 refineries for a slim fraction of their replacement value.

Forbes

Whether McCormack gets his mitts on the $1.3 billion, or even a slim fraction of it, is an open question at this point.

Forbes

The feds say the leader, 20-year-old Edgar Rodríguez-Alejandro Rodríguez-Alejandrofrom the highest levels of the Gulf cartel in Mexico until he was arrestaking May with 12 kilorderscocaine and $7.7 million, a slim fromthen of thighest00 kilevels cofaine and 116 weapons recenthe seized in the U.S. Two cells of Shorty Gulfán's cartel in Atlanta were tracked and 20 indicted in DeceMexico007.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

A key fact of white-collar crime is that we hear about only the very slim fraction of people who are caught.

The New York Times - Magazine

A slim and stately debutante,.

The New Yorker

"I'm a slim percent".

The New York Times - Sports

It's a slim little book.

Princeton University

A slim worse, true.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slim fraction", ensure the context clearly indicates what the fraction refers to and why its smallness is significant. It's most effective when quantifying something unexpectedly low or insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "a slim fraction" when the smallness of the fraction is already obvious or expected. It's most impactful when it highlights a surprising or concerning lack.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slim fraction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It quantifies a small or insubstantial portion of a whole. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slim fraction" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a notably small portion. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, serving to emphasize limited quantities or highlight deficiencies. While versatile, it's most impactful when the smallness is surprising or concerning. Related phrases include "a small proportion" and "a tiny segment". When using "a slim fraction", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the fraction refers to, and avoid using it when the smallness is already obvious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small proportion

Emphasizes the relative size of the portion compared to the whole.

a tiny segment

Highlights the diminutive nature of the part.

a negligible amount

Stresses the insignificance of the quantity.

a limited quantity

Focuses on the restricted amount available.

a fractional part

Highlights the mathematical aspect of a fraction, being just a part of the whole.

a scant portion

Emphasizes the inadequacy or bareness of the quantity.

a minimal share

Indicates the smallest possible allocation or division.

a reduced number

Highlights the fact that the quantity has been diminished.

a sparse quantity

Emphasizes the low density or scattered distribution of the amount.

a narrow margin

Suggests a small difference or space, applicable when referring to quantities close to each other.

FAQs

How can I use "a slim fraction" in a sentence?

You can use "a slim fraction" to describe a small portion of something. For example: "Only a slim fraction of the applicants were selected for the interview."

What's a similar phrase to "a slim fraction"?

Alternatives include "a small percentage", "a tiny portion", or "a minimal amount" depending on the context.

Is "a slim fraction" formal or informal?

"A slim fraction" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's more commonly found in news and analytical writing.

Is it better to use "a slim fraction" or "a small fraction"?

Both "a slim fraction" and "a small fraction" are correct, but "a slim fraction" might subtly emphasize the limited or insufficient nature of the portion being described.