a slim number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slim number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small quantity or a limited amount of something. Example: "The survey revealed a slim number of participants were in favor of the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Jazz and classical are treated as museum pieces, each offered on a slim number of channels that can't hope to contain their range.

The New York Times - Arts

With such a slim number of seats available during sales, and so many bargain hunters scanning the Internet, Web sites are left to do their best in removing promotions, while acknowledging they sometimes fall short.

The New York Times - Travel

Besides himself Bishop considers a slim number of his contemporaries as similarly devoted.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Whereas Valve has massively increased the number of games on Steam over the last few years by opening up to third parties through things like Steam Greenlight or (more recently) Steam Direct, Discord is pitching this as a more "curated" offering with a slimmer number of options.

TechCrunch

"Everyone wants a slim figure.

Huffington Post

Add dimension to a slim figure.

WikiHow

This election may ultimately be decided by the slim number of undecideds that held America hostage for several cycles.

Huffington Post

Morgen was one of nine audience members; another person in that slim number was his future wife.

Vice

But they will cut a slimmer figure.

The Economist

With the presidential candidates raising a total of $2 billion in a close contest, lies swaying slim numbers can buy elections.

The New York Times

Manufacturing and construction both rose, but by slim numbers.For the Federal Reserve today's report contains cross cutting currents.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slim number", consider the context. It's best suited for situations where you want to emphasize the smallness or scarcity of a quantity in a somewhat understated way.

Common error

Avoid using "a slim number" in very informal contexts. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Simpler phrases like "a few" or "not many" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slim number" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It specifies a quantity that is not only small but also implies a degree of unexpectedness or scarcity. Ludwig confirms that it's a valid English phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a slim number" is a grammatically sound expression used to denote a small quantity, often with an undertone of scarcity or unexpected limitation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in English writing. While "a slim number" appears most frequently in news and media contexts, it also sees use in wikis and scientific publications. For more informal settings, alternatives like "a few" or "very few" may be more suitable. When choosing to use "a slim number", consider the subtle emphasis it places on the limited quantity being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small quantity

Replaces 'number' with 'quantity', emphasizing the amount rather than the count.

a limited amount

Uses 'amount' instead of 'number', suitable for uncountable nouns.

a meager few

Emphasizes the insufficiency of the quantity, adding a negative connotation.

a handful

Suggests a quantity small enough to be held in one hand, implying a very limited number.

a trickle

Implies a very slow and gradual flow or appearance of something, suitable for things that accumulate slowly.

a smattering

Suggests a small, scattered amount, often used for knowledge or skills.

a scattering

Similar to "a smattering", but emphasizes the dispersed nature of the small quantity.

a modicum

Suggests a very small or moderate amount, often used in formal contexts.

a trace

Implies the barest minimum or slightest presence of something.

a speck

Suggests a tiny, almost insignificant amount.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slim number" to indicate a small quantity or amount, such as, "The project received "a slim number" of applications" or "Only "a slim number" of tickets are still available".

What's a good alternative to "a slim number"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a few", "a small number", or "very few" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "a slim number" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a slim number" is generally suitable for formal writing. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall context; in some cases, more direct alternatives like "a limited number" might be preferable.

When should I use "a slim number" versus "a small number"?

"A slim number" often carries a subtle connotation of scarcity or unexpected smallness, while "a small number" is more neutral. Choose "a slim number" when you want to emphasize the limited quantity.