a small contribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small contribution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor or modest input or donation towards a cause, project, or effort. Example: "Every little bit helps, and I appreciate your willingness to make a small contribution to our fundraising campaign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His is not a small contribution.

The Guardian - Books

'Stealth' taxes have made a small contribution.

The Guardian - Business

Line item vetoes made a small contribution.

The New York Times

For a small contribution, much other useful information is available.

The New York Times - Travel

Others insist that technology has made only a small contribution.

The New York Times

I have had the privilege of making a small contribution.

The New York Times

"Five thousand dollars isn't a small contribution," Brennan said.

The New York Times

As they strolled, a homeless man approached and asked for a small contribution.

The New York Times

That strategy of engagement made a small contribution, we think, to opening up eastern Europe.

The Guardian

I can only hope my efforts have made a small contribution to repairing old damage.

The Guardian

At that point, Catlin said, Astana had paid him a "small contribution" to begin taking samples.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small contribution" to introduce a sense of humility and encourage others to participate, implying that even minor efforts are valuable.

Common error

Avoid using "a small contribution" when the impact is substantial, as it undermines the importance of the effort. Instead, use phrases that accurately reflect the true value of the contribution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small contribution" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a minor or modest input. It is used to indicate a limited or humble offering in various situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small contribution" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a limited or modest input. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While it's generally appropriate, writers should be mindful of accurately reflecting the magnitude of the contribution and avoiding overstatement. Alternatives like "a minor donation" or "a modest input" can provide nuanced expression. This phrase strikes a neutral tone and is suitable for both formal and informal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor donation

Replaces "contribution" with "donation", emphasizing the act of giving.

a modest input

Substitutes "small contribution" with "modest input", highlighting the humble nature of the contribution.

a slight addition

Uses "addition" to indicate a minor increase or supplement.

a token offering

Implies a symbolic or minimal contribution, often given as a gesture.

a limited assistance

Focuses on the aspect of providing help in a restricted manner.

a marginal impact

Highlights the minimal effect or influence of the contribution.

a nominal share

Indicates a very small or insignificant portion.

a fractional part

Suggests that the contribution is only a tiny piece of the whole.

a symbolic gesture

Emphasizes the act as a representation of support rather than a substantial contribution.

a drop in the bucket

Uses an idiom to convey that the contribution is insignificant compared to the overall need.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a small contribution" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "a minor donation", "a modest input", or "a slight addition" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a small contribution" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to acknowledge a contribution without exaggerating its importance. However, consider whether a more precise term might be more appropriate for your specific context.

What's the difference between "a small contribution" and "a significant contribution"?

"A small contribution" implies the impact or amount is limited, while "a significant contribution" suggests it has a notable or important effect.

When should I use "a small contribution" instead of "a minor contribution"?

The terms are largely interchangeable. "A small contribution" is slightly more common, but "a minor contribution" is also perfectly acceptable and conveys essentially the same meaning.