a small opening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small opening" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a physical gap or space that is limited in size. Example: "The mouse squeezed through a small opening in the wall to escape the house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They managed to create a small opening, she says.

The Guardian

Furthermore, the adsorption of CH4 leads to a small opening of the band structure of graphene.

Materials & Design

Finished compost is removed from a small opening at the base of the chamber.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is a small opening, a reprieve from the current tensions and an opportunity".

The New York Times

But in 1998, a wrestling tournament in Iran offered a chance for a small opening.

The Washington Post

In modern fridges, condensation runs down the walls and into a small opening at the back.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is a small opening, but one that can lead to the national title.

The New York Times - Sports

Workers take orders through a small opening in a shield of bulletproof glass.

The New York Times

spiracle -- In insects and some other terrestrial arthropods, a small opening through which air is taken into the tracheae.

University of California, Berkeley

Overnight natural ventilation with even a small opening is associated with excessive energy consumption and deteriorated indoor thermal environment.

Energy and Buildings

A small opening connected to a V-shaped notch at the edge allows air to flow through the instrument.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use precise measurements or comparative adjectives to further illustrate the size of "a small opening". For example, "a small opening, no larger than a coin".

Common error

Avoid using "a small opening" when you actually mean a 'minor advantage' or 'slight opportunity'. Be specific with your word choice to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small opening" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase describes a limited physical space or, metaphorically, a limited opportunity. Examples show its use in diverse contexts, from physical structures to abstract situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small opening" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a limited space or opportunity. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, with a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When using this phrase, consider the context and choose precise language to avoid ambiguity. Be mindful of the distinction between physical spaces and metaphorical opportunities, opting for clarity in word choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small space

General term for a limited area.

a narrow gap

Focuses on the limited width of the space.

a tiny aperture

Highlights the diminutive size of the opening.

a pinhole

Highlights an extremely small, almost imperceptible opening.

a crack

Suggests a partial break or split.

a chink

Emphasizes the vulnerability created by the opening.

a hairline fracture

Implies a very thin break.

a narrow window

Implies a short duration of availability.

a limited opportunity

Shifts from a physical space to a figurative chance.

a slight chance

Emphasizes the minimal probability of success.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small opening" to describe a physical space, like "The mouse squeezed through "a small opening" in the wall." You can also use it metaphorically to describe a slight opportunity.

What are some synonyms for "a small opening"?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms like "a narrow gap", "a tiny aperture", or "a limited opportunity".

Is it correct to say "a small opening" or should I use "an small opening"?

It is correct to say "a small opening." The article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

When is it appropriate to use "a small opening" metaphorically?

You can use "a small opening" metaphorically when referring to a slight chance or opportunity, similar to using the phrase "a narrow window". For example, "The negotiation presented "a small opening" for compromise."