a small degree of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small degree of" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means a small amount or level of something. Example: "There was only a small degree of difference between the two candidates' policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Recess appointments have given Obama a small degree of leverage to fight back.

The New Yorker

Most inmates, if you give them a small degree of respect, they will respect you.

The New York Times

And, for the residents who bought at much higher prices, probably a small degree of relief.

The New York Times

This gave her a small degree of protection from the blows.

Independent

Am I alone in feeling a small degree of sadness after hearing that Sony is retiring the Walkman?

The Guardian - Music

The group aims to establishing a small degree of democracy in a church that has long resisted it.

The New York Times

The Chinese people had been permitted a small degree of freedom in recent months by Vice-Premier Teng Hsiao ping.

The New Yorker

Soils in Qatar are marked by a small degree of organic material and are generally calcareous and agriculturally unproductive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Starlight often shows a small degree of polarization (a few percent), with the effect increasing with stellar distance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After about 1960 a small degree of Westernization set in, permitting a variation in colour and fabric.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The group has also adopted ambitious goals, in particular seeking to establish a small degree of democracy in a church that has long resisted it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small degree of" to indicate a limited but present quality, avoiding exaggeration or overstatement.

Common error

Avoid using "a small degree of" when the quality is negligible or absent; instead, use phrases like "almost no" or "virtually none" to ensure accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small degree of" functions as a modifier to describe the extent or intensity of a following noun. It indicates that something exists, but only to a limited extent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small degree of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a limited amount or extent. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. It serves to qualify statements, indicating that something exists but is not substantial. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, its neutral register makes it versatile for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the limited nature of what you're describing to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A slight amount of

Emphasizes the insignificance of the quantity more directly.

A limited quantity of

Focuses on the restricted nature of the amount.

A minimal level of

Highlights that the extent barely meets the threshold.

A trace of

Suggests an almost imperceptible presence.

A touch of

Implies a delicate or subtle influence.

A hint of

Indicates a subtle suggestion or indication.

A shade of

Conveys a slight variation or tinge.

A modicum of

Suggests a small but valuable amount.

A fraction of

Refers to a small portion of a whole.

A smattering of

Implies a sparse and uneven distribution.

FAQs

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

Use "a small degree of" to indicate that something exists to a limited extent. For example, "There was "a small degree of overlap" between the two studies".

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

Alternatives include "a slight amount of", "a limited quantity of", or "a minimal level of", depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a small degree of" is suitable for formal writing to convey precision and avoid exaggeration. It's a versatile phrase applicable in various contexts.

How does "a small degree of" differ from "a large degree of"?

"A small degree of" indicates a minimal presence or influence, while "a large degree of" suggests a significant or substantial presence or influence. The choice depends on the magnitude you wish to convey.