a small collection of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small collection of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a limited number of items or examples grouped together. Example: "She displayed a small collection of vintage postcards on the shelf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I have a small collection of Angela material.

The Guardian - Books

He had a small collection of Impressionist art.

The New Yorker

On a small collection of birds from San Sebastian, Colombia.

Harvard University

Finally, this series contains a small collection of Ginsberg obituaries.

Columbia University

A small collection of memorabilia documenting the life of Atchley.

Columbia University

There's a thriving artistic community and a small collection of museums and galleries.

The Guardian - Travel

Above my desk there's a small collection of late-18th- and 19th- century chess sets.

The Guardian - Books

There are Egyptian reliefs and coffins, and a small collection of erotica.

The Guardian - Travel

She is interested in contemporary video art and has a small collection of Chinese scholars' rocks.

The New York Times - Arts

Rogowsky has a small collection of dark suits bearing lapels as narrow as boning knives.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I Love Languages.com - Uzbek A small collection of links to language and cultural websites.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small collection of", ensure the context clarifies what makes the collection 'small'. Is it small relative to other collections, or small in absolute terms? Providing context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a small collection of" when referring to something that is inherently singular or unique. For example, instead of "a small collection of the Mona Lisa", simply state "the Mona Lisa".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small collection of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically a quantifier, that modifies a noun. It indicates a limited quantity of the noun it precedes. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

35%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small collection of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a limited quantity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by providing context to define what 'small' means in the given situation. Alternatives like "a limited number of" or "a select few" can offer nuanced variations. By understanding its function, purpose, and potential pitfalls, you can effectively use "a small collection of" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited number of

Focuses on the restricted quantity, similar to "a small collection of".

a handful of

Implies a small, manageable quantity, often referring to items that can be held in one hand.

a select few

Highlights the exclusivity or special nature of the items, alongside their limited number.

a modest assortment of

Emphasizes the variety within the small quantity, suggesting a carefully chosen selection.

a restricted set of

Conveys the idea of a limited and possibly controlled or defined group of items.

a sparse array of

Suggests a thinly distributed or scattered arrangement of a few items.

a miniature compilation of

Highlights the diminutive scale and the act of gathering items together.

a curated selection of

Implies that the items have been chosen with care and attention to detail, emphasizing quality over quantity.

a minor accumulation of

Focuses on the gradual gathering of a small number of items over time.

a reduced quantity of

Stresses the diminished amount compared to a larger possible quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small collection of" to describe a limited number of items. For example, "The museum displayed "a small collection of" ancient artifacts".

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

Alternatives include "a limited number of", "a handful of", or "a select few", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a small collection of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a small collection of" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider whether a more precise term (e.g., "a limited set of", or naming the exact quantity) might be more suitable for the context.

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

"A small collection of" indicates a limited quantity, while "a large collection of" implies a substantial quantity. The choice between the two depends on the actual number of items and the impression you want to create.