a small offering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small offering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a modest gift or contribution, often in a ceremonial or symbolic context. Example: "In gratitude for their support, she made a small offering at the community altar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Usually he will make a small offering at the oratory (haiden) and pray.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Still, it is a small offering compared to the breadth of rightwing media.

The Guardian

• Mattel first attended Comic-Con in 2000 with a small offering, but it has expanded every year since.

The New York Times

Yet is that enough of a tragedy, or is that – like every death in the novel – a small offering?

The Guardian - Books

For a first outing at Ungaro, it was neither a triumph nor a failure and buyers are likely to cherry-pick what was already a small offering.

The New York Times

William's mother thought that it was a good idea, and a way to do something for the country when everyone felt helpless: a small offering.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The original design consists of an imposing open court with colonnades of graceful lotus columns, a smaller offering hall, a shrine for the ceremonial boat of the god, an inner sanctuary for the cult image, and a room in which the divine birth of the king was celebrated.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The market was less than ideal and the press was far from glowing, but the plan was to pursue a smaller offering, in size and in price, that would allow the company to go public and put all the related distractions behind it.

The New York Times

eStories is not eMusic's first foray into audiobooks: the company used to have a smaller offering that went by the prosaic name "eMusic audiobooks".

TechCrunch

That couple's seemingly small offering made a huge impact.

Forbes

But Palm Beach is also a small gem offering simple pleasures.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small offering" in formal writing, ensure the context aligns with its connotation of humility or symbolic value. Consider whether a more precise term might be appropriate depending on the specific situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a small offering" when referring to something of significant value or importance. This can create a mismatch in tone and undermine your intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small offering" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig AI validates this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small offering" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It denotes a modest gift or contribution, often symbolic in nature. While its register is generally neutral, its use is most frequent in news and media contexts. Alternatives such as "a modest contribution" or "a token gift" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance. Remember to consider the connotation of humility when using "a small offering", and avoid it when referring to something of great value. Ludwig AI underscores the versatility of the phrase across various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a modest contribution

Emphasizes the humility and unpretentiousness of the contribution.

a token gift

Highlights the symbolic value of the gift rather than its monetary worth.

a minor tribute

Implies respect or admiration being shown through the offering.

a humble present

Stresses the simplicity and lack of extravagance of the present.

a slight donation

Focuses on the act of giving and the relatively small size of the donation.

a symbolic gesture

Highlights the offering's representation of a larger sentiment or intention.

a nominal fee

Used specifically in the context of payment, indicating a very small amount.

a little something

An informal and vague way to refer to a small gift or offering.

a sample

Suggests the offering is a part or a portion of a bigger thing that is being used to present or promote a product/idea

a starter

Suggests the offering is a beginning of a business or activity. For example it might be first free module to start your course.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small offering" to describe a modest gift, contribution, or gesture. For example, "She made "a small offering" at the temple for good fortune".

What can I say instead of "a small offering"?

You can use alternatives like "a modest contribution", "a token gift", or "a humble present" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a small offering"?

It's appropriate when describing something given that is not necessarily significant in monetary value but has symbolic or sentimental importance. It can be used in religious, ceremonial, or general contexts where a gesture of goodwill is intended.

Is "a small offering" formal or informal?

"A small offering" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of the specific situation and ensure it aligns with the overall tone you are trying to convey.