a small amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a quantity that is limited or not large in size or number. Example: "She added a small amount of sugar to her tea to enhance the flavor."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's just a small amount".

The New Yorker

But a small amount".

The New York Times

PROFANITY A small amount.

The New York Times

He scooped up a small amount.

The New York Times

A small amount extra makes little odds.

The Economist

"A small amount, but good quality".

The Guardian

With perhaps a small amount of prodding.

The New York Times

Only a small amount is about celebrities.

The New York Times

His mother, Joan Siegel, contributed a small amount.

The New York Times

"Actually, 80g is a small amount".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I invested a small amount with him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small amount", consider the context to determine if a more specific term (e.g., "trace", "hint", "dash") would be more appropriate to convey the precise quantity.

Common error

While "a small amount" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise quantitative terms or specific measurements to enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

"A small amount" functions as a quantifier, indicating a limited or reduced quantity of something. It modifies a noun and specifies that the quantity is not large, as evidenced by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

38%

News & Media

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small amount" is a versatile quantifier used to indicate a limited quantity, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's prevalent in diverse contexts, particularly in Wiki and News & Media, and maintains a neutral register suitable for most situations. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, more precise language may be preferable in formal or scientific writing. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "a little bit" or "a tiny quantity" to add nuance to your expression. Remember to tailor your choice to the specific context to ensure clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a little bit

Emphasizes the diminutive size or extent.

a tiny quantity

Highlights the extremely small nature of the amount.

a modicum

Suggests a barely sufficient or moderate amount.

a trace

Implies a very minimal or almost undetectable amount.

a hint

Indicates a subtle or slight presence of something.

a dash

Typically used for adding a small quantity of an ingredient.

a touch

Similar to a hint, implying a delicate or minimal addition.

a speck

Refers to a very small particle or amount.

a dribble

Suggests a trickling or insignificant amount.

a soupçon

A small amount of something, especially used in cooking.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "a small amount"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a little bit", "a tiny quantity", or "a modicum" to express a limited quantity.

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

You can use "a small amount" to describe a limited quantity of something. For example, "She added a small amount of sugar to her tea" or "Only a small amount of water is needed for this recipe."

Is it better to say "a small amount of" or "a little bit of"?

Both phrases are generally acceptable, but "a small amount of" might be preferred in more formal contexts. In casual conversation, "a little bit of" is perfectly fine.

When is it inappropriate to use "a small amount"?

It might be inappropriate in contexts requiring precise measurements. For example, in scientific research, specifying the exact quantity (e.g., "5 grams") would be more accurate than saying "a small amount".