a small array of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small array of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limited selection or variety of items, often in contexts such as data, options, or choices. Example: "The menu features a small array of desserts, including chocolate cake, fruit tarts, and ice cream."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"My philosophy is a small array of breads, each with its own use.

The New Yorker

These are populated with a small array of animals and vehicles including horses and helicopters.

The Guardian - Tech

Power is provided by a small array of solar panels and windmills, and exercise is provided by a stationary bike.

The New York Times

When I started improvising, I amassed a small array of characters whose dialogue was always different, but somewhere in my bones I recognised a few tropes.

The Guardian

Canoga California-based Sunpower Systems Inc., has wedded a cell phone lithium-ion battery to a small array of solar cells that fit in a phone's regular battery slot.

The New York Times - Tech

At first, the Chinese government demanded only a small array of changes — to the color and amplitude of spurting blood — and, when Tarantino complied, the movie was scheduled for an early-April release.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But many in the steel industry say the proposal may be scaled back to cover a smaller array of health care benefits and fewer workers.

The New York Times

Insurers say that with a smaller array of doctors and hospitals, they can offer lower-cost policies and have more control over the quality of health care providers.

The New York Times - Health

But Mr. Caamano said the use of amorphous metals, which have unique microstructures, makes for a power-dense, low-cost compact motor and a smaller array of lithium batteries.

The New York Times

In 2009, researchers using a smaller array of seismometers claimed to have found a shallow magma chamber at 2 kilometers' depth.

Science Magazine

All three are part of the dormouse family, which includes many extinct forms dating back to the early Eocene (around 50 million years ago), as well as a smaller array of living species.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small array of", ensure the context clearly indicates the limited nature of the selection. This phrase is suitable when you want to emphasize that the options or items are not extensive.

Common error

Avoid using "a small array of" when describing a large or diverse collection. It's best suited for situations where the number of items is genuinely limited.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small array of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a limited or restricted collection. This serves to quantify and qualify the noun it precedes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Science & Research

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small array of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a limited selection or variety. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's commonly found in news, science, and research contexts, indicating its versatility across different domains. When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the limited nature of the collection. Alternatives like ""a limited selection of"" and ""a modest collection of"" can be used to achieve similar effects, tailored to the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited selection of

Emphasizes the restricted nature of the choice available.

a modest collection of

Highlights the unassuming size of the gathering.

a restricted range of

Focuses on the confined scope of options.

a narrow selection of

Implies a limited set of specific choices.

a small number of

Highlights the quantity being low.

a handful of

Suggests a very small and easily manageable amount.

a limited quantity of

Focuses on the restricted volume or amount.

a concise compilation of

Indicates a brief yet comprehensive collection.

a curated set of

Emphasizes the deliberate selection of items.

a select few

Highlights the exclusivity and limited availability.

FAQs

How can I use "a small array of" in a sentence?

You can use "a small array of" to describe a limited selection or variety of items. For example, "The restaurant offers "a small array of" appetizers."

What are some alternatives to "a small array of"?

Alternatives include "a limited selection of", "a modest collection of", or "a restricted range of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a small array of choices"?

Yes, "a small array of choices" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It indicates that there are only a few options available.

What's the difference between "a small array of" and "a wide array of"?

"A small array of" indicates a limited selection, while "a wide array of" suggests a large and diverse variety. The key difference is the size and scope of the collection being described.