a small expression of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small expression of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a minor or limited demonstration of a feeling, sentiment, or idea. Example: "This gift is just a small expression of my gratitude for all your help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

On that day every Muslim family will buy 14 flowers along with 14 cards with a message explaining that we are their Muslim neighbours and we wish to extend to them a small expression of condolence.

The Guardian

In Germany, Moore discovers that surfers first took to the icy North Sea in the 1950s, when "surfing on a German beach was a small expression of die neue Zeit, the shift from Hitler's nightmare and the long shadow of the 19th century to an outlook that was more spontaneous, easygoing, modern and rich".

The New York Times - Books

Consistent with the immunocytochemistry observations in which the antibodies did not recognize GFAP, NF-H, and GAP-43 proteins in the undifferentiated HMSCs in the slides, the molecular analysis showed a small expression of GFAP gene and absence of expression of the NF-H and GAP-43 genes in these same undifferentiated cells.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Hormonal signals in STC-1 cells were dominated by sct, gip, cck, and iapp, with a smaller expression of gcg (Fig. 2A).

Endocrinology

In contrast, inhibition of the wound contraction under He-Ne and Argon laser exposure to 20 J/cm was recorded [ 23], a smaller expression of collagen and elastic fibres with a dosage of 8 J/cm² compared with 4 J/cm[ 36], and a decrease in cell viability and cell proliferation of wounded fibroblast exposed to 10 and 16 J/cm compared with 5 J/cm [ 31].

BioMed Research International

Or is it the men, who fear the smallest expression of female sexuality?

The New Yorker

Funnily enough, pocket money only became a common practice in families around the 1940s and 50s; perhaps it was a small cultural expression of satisfaction following the upheaval of depression, war and evacuation - children's pocket money signifying peace and prosperity.

The Guardian - Money

Walking by him everyday, I have come to think of the cobbler's survival strategy as a small, perfect expression of the characteristic found so often among those who have weathered their share of China's past century: flexibility.

The New Yorker

A large group of asRNAs displayed small expression changes, whereas the expression of 30 asRNAs increased strongly during the first 12 hr and quickly decreased thereafter.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

We highlight the environmental conditions that induce the Salmonella pathogenicity islands and present a small RNA expression landscape of 280 sRNAs.

Cell Host & Microbe

Our expression arrays showed a small increase in expression of several other Wnt targets in 1322T adenomas including EphB2, EphB3, Grem1, Mmp7 and Myc.

Gut

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small expression of" when you want to downplay the intensity or scope of a feeling, action, or idea. This can create a sense of modesty or understatement.

Common error

Avoid using "a small expression of" when the sentiment or action is substantial or impactful. Using it in such cases can undermine the true meaning and seem insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small expression of" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, indicating that something is being communicated or demonstrated in a limited or understated way. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small expression of" is used to convey a sentiment or action in a modest or understated way. It functions as a noun phrase and is generally considered grammatically correct. Ludwig AI shows that it's most frequently found in news and scientific contexts. While its frequency is rare, it can effectively communicate a sense of humility or subtlety, particularly when acknowledging gratitude or offering condolences. Consider using alternatives like "a minor demonstration of" or "a slight indication of" for similar effects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A minor demonstration of

Replaces "small expression" with "minor demonstration", focusing on the act of showing rather than the expression itself. The intensity of the action or sentiment is reduced.

A slight indication of

Changes "expression" to "indication", emphasizing the suggestive nature of the sentiment rather than a direct expression. It focuses on the subtlety of the communicated feeling or action.

A limited display of

Substitutes "small expression" with "limited display", highlighting the controlled and somewhat restrained nature of the exhibited feeling or action.

A modest token of

Replaces "expression" with "token", shifting the focus to something symbolic representing a feeling or intention.

A hint of

This alternative conveys an indirect or subtle communication of the sentiment or information.

A touch of

Emphasizes the subtlety and delicacy of the expression.

A shadow of

This alternative represents something that is not fully developed or realized, but rather exists as a mere impression.

A whisper of

Conveys an extremely subtle or quiet indication of something.

A mere semblance of

Highlights the superficial or deceptive appearance of the expression.

A grain of

Conveys the tiny or almost insignificant nature of the expression.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small expression of" to describe a modest display of feeling or intent. For example: "This donation is just a small expression of our gratitude."

What phrases are similar to "a small expression of"?

Alternatives include "a minor demonstration of", "a slight indication of", or "a modest token of", depending on the specific context.

Is "a small expression of" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a small expression of" is generally suitable for formal writing when used to convey a sense of humility or understatement. However, consider the overall tone and audience when choosing this phrase.

Can "a small expression of" be used for negative sentiments?

While typically used for positive sentiments like gratitude or appreciation, "a small expression of" can also be used for negative sentiments, such as "a small expression of disapproval", though this is less common.