a small number of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small number of things" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a limited quantity of items or elements in a general context. Example: "In the box, I found a small number of things that I had forgotten about."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Research highlights a small number of things that people regard as vital.

The Guardian

Conventional diagnostic tests usually detect one or a small number of things at a time, like a key genomic abnormality.

MIT Technology Review

Because of these adaptive pressures, most herbivorous insects are specialists: they are very good at eating a small number of things.

The New Yorker

And with implicit and explicit feedback from you, it would recommend a small number of things that seem most important at the time.

MIT Technology Review

Even strong presidents soon discover that their political capital is actually fairly limited: they can push through only a small number of things.

The Economist

Another network that has concentrated on doing a small number of things noisily – BBC3 – also performed far beyond expectations with victories for the sitcom Him and Her and the apocalyptic drama In the Flesh.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

"We need to build a higher fence around a smaller number of things.

The New York Times

This can be difficult as you don't want to seem unwilling, but emphasise that you don't want to spread yourself too thinly and would rather carry out a smaller number of things to the best of your ability.

The Guardian

Practice strategic apathy; reserve your energy for a small number of important things.

Huffington Post

The majority of businesses that you will find listed on most-admired lists globally tend to be known particularly for a surprisingly small number of things, whether that's specific responsibility programmes, partnerships, approaches towards people management, innovation, long-term investment, use of assets, competitiveness, or quality processes.

Huffington Post

Even such a small number of seals kept things lively, popping up in new places like a Whac-A-Mole.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When listing items, ensure the context makes it clear what "things" refers to. For example, "a small number of things to consider" is more specific than "a small number of things".

Common error

While acceptable, repeatedly using "a small number of things" can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Vary your phrasing with more specific terms or synonyms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small number of things" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying a limited quantity of unspecified items. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in various contexts, indicating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small number of things" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a limited quantity across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression. While "common", you can use alternatives like "a few items" or "a limited quantity of things" for more precise or formal communication. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources and serves a descriptive, limiting purpose. Keep in mind, while useful, overuse might reduce sophistication in more formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited number of items

Replaces "things" with the more specific "items", implying a collection of distinct objects.

a handful of items

Uses "handful" to emphasize the small quantity, adding a more informal tone.

a few select things

Adds "select" to highlight the chosen or special nature of the items.

a restricted set of items

Emphasizes the limitation and exclusivity of the group.

a reduced number of elements

Replaces "things" with "elements", suitable for more technical contexts.

a concise selection of items

Highlights the brevity and careful curation of the choice.

a finite set of objects

Uses "finite" to indicate the limited nature of the collection in a formal way.

a minimum number of considerations

Focuses on the essential aspects to consider, narrowing down the scope.

a sparse collection of belongings

Emphasizes the scarcity and personal nature of the items.

a narrow range of subjects

Specifies the context to be related to topics or subjects.

FAQs

How can I use "a small number of things" in a sentence?

You can use "a small number of things" to refer to a limited quantity of items or elements. For example, "There are "a small number of things" that need to be addressed before we proceed".

What are some alternatives to "a small number of things"?

Alternatives include "a few items", "a limited quantity of things", or "a handful of items", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a small number of things"?

Yes, "a small number of things" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. It indicates a limited quantity in a general sense.

What's the difference between "a small number of things" and "a few things"?

"A few things" is generally more informal. "A small number of things" can be used in more formal contexts, although it is still quite versatile.