a small distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a short measurement or gap between two points. Example: "The park is located just a small distance from my house, making it easy to walk there."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It needs less power because the data travel only a small distance to another node.

The Economist

A small distance away, a meticulously scrubbed blackboard had the words "DENTISTE, VENDREDI, 10 A.M". chalked up and ringed round.

The New Yorker

He's left with the sensation that he has moved from his starting point, even if it's only a small distance, ten or twenty centimeters.

The Guardian - Books

"In those days, residents living near the theatre either had to only walk a small distance or could even stay in their own street to watch a show.

The Guardian

After rising a small distance, the smoke usually changes to turbulent flow, as it eddies and swirls from its regular path.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The hinge element consists of two nodes separated by a small distance.

International Journal of Mechanical Sciences

There's a simple reason for this: Most people are only willing to drive a small distance for everyday services.

TechCrunch

In the Formula (varepsilon) represents a small distance away from the leak.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

A small distance to the underlying classification model implies reliable predictions.

Journal of Cheminformatics

However, because the two wells are only a small distance apart, we could neglect this factor.

Earth, Planets and Space

Assuming that at a small distance away and some time later the given intensity is.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical locations, specify "a small distance" in relation to a known landmark for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a small distance" without providing context. Define what is considered "small" in the given scenario to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small distance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to describe spatial relationships. As shown in Ludwig, it modifies verbs or clauses to indicate the extent of separation between two points or objects. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small distance" is a common noun phrase used to describe a short separation between two points or objects. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and applicable across a range of writing styles, from scientific reports to news articles. While versatile, it's important to provide context to avoid vagueness, as emphasized in the writing guidance. Consider using more specific alternatives like "a few feet" when possible, especially in technical contexts. Given Ludwig's analysis, this phrase is a reliable component of the English lexicon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a short space

Focuses on the spatial separation being minimal.

a slight gap

Highlights the separation as being minimal and barely noticeable.

a little ways

Emphasizes the brevity of the span or journey.

a close proximity

Stresses nearness rather than the measurement of the separation.

a hair's breadth

Implies an extremely tiny and almost immeasurable interval.

a step away

Indicates the minimal effort to overcome the interval.

a stone's throw

Uses an idiomatic expression denoting a very reachable interval.

within earshot

Focuses on the perceived distance, rather than actual measurement.

a narrow margin

Highlights the slenderness of the gap.

a mere inch

Uses specific measurement to illustrate the shortness of the gap.

FAQs

What's a more descriptive alternative to "a small distance"?

Depending on the context, consider using more specific terms such as "a few feet", "inches apart", or idiomatic expressions like "a stone's throw".

How can I use "a small distance" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the separation between two objects or places, for example: "The store is located just "a short distance" from the park."

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "a small distance"?

While grammatically correct, using "a small distance" can be vague. Always ensure your audience understands what you consider a "small distance" in the context you're providing or quantify it with a number.

What’s the difference between "a small distance" and "a long distance"?

"A small distance" indicates a short separation, while "a long distance" signifies a significant separation. The choice depends on the context and the actual span you're describing.