a small glimpse

USAGE SUMMARY

"a small glimpse" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a quick, brief look at or understanding of something. For example, "I only got a small glimpse of the painting before the museum closed for the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'd caught a small glimpse of the process before, when I studied abroad in Pittsburgh for a year (which is where I met my future husband).

Huffington Post

We caught a small glimpse of this town.

The New York Times

It is a small glimpse of the saintly.

The New York Times - Books

But Chelsea Jeans offers a small glimpse of what was.

The New York Times

It was a small glimpse of things to come.

The Guardian

These statistics are a small glimpse of the radical inequality that blankets poor black Baltimore.

The New York Times

It was a small glimpse into Gruden's approach as a third-year NFL coach.

The Washington Post

"We're only seeing a small glimpse of what's really going on out there".

The New York Times

Last Tuesday, Pinterest offered a small glimpse of this future in the form of an experimental feature called Lens.

The New Yorker

"It's a rare item," says RZA, "and tonight you'll have the chance to get a small glimpse".

The Guardian - Music

Even though it was offside it's a small glimpse of an area where Greece will feel they can prosper.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small glimpse" to introduce a brief or incomplete understanding of a larger topic. It sets the expectation that more information is needed for a comprehensive view.

Common error

Avoid using "a small glimpse" when the information provided is substantial or conclusive. It can undermine the impact of your message if it suggests the information is less significant than it is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small glimpse" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a brief or partial view, preview, or understanding of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small glimpse" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that serves to indicate a limited or partial view of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it sets the expectation that the information provided is not exhaustive. While versatile, it's important to avoid overstating the significance of what's being described and ensure the phrase accurately reflects the completeness of the information presented. Related phrases like "a brief look" or "a quick peek" offer alternative ways to express a similar sentiment, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A brief look

Focuses on the brevity of the observation.

A quick peek

Implies a rapid and often secretive look.

A fleeting view

Emphasizes the transient nature of the visual experience.

A limited insight

Highlights the restricted nature of the understanding gained.

A passing glance

Suggests a casual and superficial observation.

A hint

Implies an indirect or subtle suggestion.

A taste

Conveys a preliminary experience or sample.

A touch

Focuses on a slight or minimal contact.

A shade

Highlights a slight degree or difference.

A soupçon

Is a fancy alternative to describe 'a slight degree of something'.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small glimpse" to indicate that you have only seen or understood a limited part of something. For example, "The trailer offered "a small glimpse" of the movie's plot."

What phrases are similar to "a small glimpse"?

Similar phrases include "a brief look", "a quick peek", or "a fleeting view". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a small glimpse" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, consider the specific context and audience. More formal alternatives might include "a limited insight" or "a preliminary view".

What's the difference between "a small glimpse" and "a comprehensive overview"?

"A small glimpse" indicates a limited and incomplete understanding, while "a comprehensive overview" suggests a thorough and complete understanding. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the amount of information being presented.