a small amount of fire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small amount of fire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a minor or limited presence of fire, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "The campfire was just a small amount of fire, barely enough to keep us warm on the chilly night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Weak desires bring weak results, just as a small amount of fire makes a small amount of heat -- Napoleon Hill.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sprinkle a small amount of the chemical onto the fire.

WikiHow

A small amount of tear gas was also fired without result at the mass of onlookers gathered in front of Taylor Hall.

The New York Times

In muzzle-loading a musket, the soldier bit off the end of the paper cartridge, poured a small amount of the powder into the firing pan, poured the rest down the barrel, and rammed the ball and paper down after it.

Britannica

More than half the town had been evacuated, and Swanton revealed there had been reports of "a small amount of looting" in West following the fire, describing it as "a significant concern".

Independent

Fire a small amount of brass to practice reaching the melting point safely before you attempt a larger project.

WikiHow

After 28 wetting-drying cycles, crystalline salt particles on the surface of the specimens and a small amount of grains were observed for the untreated fired-clay samples, which affirmed efflorescence, and the efflorescence became serious with the grains falling off from the surface layer of untreated sample after 78 cycles.

Heritage Science

The design envisaged producing a whiteware from two chamottes, each having the same composition but with different median particle sizes, and only a small amount of clay (∼10 to 15%) to minimise the firing shrinkage and its anisotropy.

Journal of the European Ceramic Society

Fire cupping, where a small cut is made in the skin, a piece of cotton wool doused with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol is placed on top, lit on fire and enclosed by a cup.

Vice

However, a small amount of Mn4+ at Ti sites is also observed when fired in air or oxygen flow.

Acta Materialia

Bailey was fired but sued and won a small amount of back pay and the right to return to his job.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the intensity of a fire, be specific with "a small amount of fire" to convey a sense of limited or controlled combustion.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the size of a fire when only "a small amount of fire" is present, as this can create a false impression of danger or damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small amount of fire" primarily functions as a noun phrase acting as an object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig shows its usage in describing controlled or limited instances of fire. The phrase specifies the quantity or intensity of fire.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small amount of fire" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a limited quantity of fire. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and identifies its usage across news media, wikis, and scientific contexts. While less frequent than other similar expressions, it serves as a clear and straightforward way to convey the scale of a combustion event, emphasizing control and limited intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a flicker of flame

Emphasizes the brief and unsteady nature of the fire.

a touch of heat

Focuses on the thermal aspect rather than the visual fire.

a spark of combustion

Highlights the initial stage of burning, suggesting potential for growth.

a dying flame

Conveys that the fire is diminishing in size and intensity.

a trace of embers

Indicates the remnants of a fire, almost extinguished.

a modest bonfire

Highlights a diminutive fire that burns outdoor for many purposes.

a controlled burn

Implies a managed and deliberate fire setting, but can be really small.

a pilot light

Refers to a small, constant flame used for ignition in appliances.

a wisp of smoke

Signifies a minimal amount of fire, often associated with smoldering.

a hint of warmth

Subtler and more figurative expression related to heat from fire.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small amount of fire" to describe controlled burns, minor accidents, or pilot lights. For example: "The camper used only "a small amount of fire" to cook their meal."

What are some synonyms for "a small amount of fire"?

Alternatives include "a flicker of flame", "a touch of heat", or "a spark of combustion", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a little bit of fire" instead of "a small amount of fire"?

Yes, "a little bit of fire" is a valid alternative. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and the overall tone of your writing. "A small amount of fire" might be perceived as slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "a small amount of fire" and "a large amount of fire"?

The difference lies in the intensity and scale of the combustion. "A small amount of fire" suggests limited heat and flame, while "a large amount of fire" indicates significant heat, widespread flames, and potential danger.