a small outline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small outline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a brief or concise summary or sketch of a topic or idea. Example: "Before we start the project, I would like to present a small outline of our objectives and goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This is a small outline about the processes (steps, meetings, agreements, analysis, etc).

Procedia Technology

Armed men glance speculatively at the traveler's coin-sized arrival stamp bearing the day's date and a small outline of an airplane, along with six mentions of "Egypt".

The New Yorker

He was the man on the sideline in the hat, an image so abiding that when he was inducted into the Cowboys Ring of Honor at Texas Stadium, a small outline of a fedora was placed next to his name.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Recently, Harry Styles debuted a new tattoo -- he was spotted out and about with what appears to be an small outline of a clothing hanger on his upper left arm.

Huffington Post

If you look closely at the template, you will see a small outlined box in the lower left-hand corner of the back side.

WikiHow

In addition, a small-outline transistor (SOT-6) packaging method is adopted, and reliability tests (including temperature, humidity, vibration, and pressure) are conducted to guarantee long-term stability and commercial success.

Solid-State Electronics

This paper proposes a mechanical design methodology to predict and ensure more reliable mechanical safety of the solder joints of a plastic ball grid array (PBGA) and a thin-shrink small outline package (TSSOP) under launch random vibration excitation.

International Journal of Fatigue

Inside is a small, delicate outline of a seagull.

The Guardian - Film

The reliability and the solderability of thin small outline package (TSOP) are significantly affected by the warpage that is generated after epoxy molding compound (EMC) molding process.

Microelectronics Reliability

In this study, a novel piezoresistive pressure sensor, using flip chip and flex circuit packaging technologies with spacer, is employed to substitute the conventional chip on board or small outline package (SOP) packaging technology.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

On the way in, he passed a small sign outlining some guidelines of conduct that read: "No profanity.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a project or idea, start with "a small outline" to provide a quick understanding of the main points before delving into details. This sets expectations and helps the audience follow along more easily.

Common error

Avoid using "a small outline" repeatedly in a single document or presentation. Vary your language with alternatives like "brief summary" or "short overview" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small outline" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'small' acts as an adjective modifying 'outline'. It is used to describe a brief or concise summary, plan, or sketch of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small outline" functions as a noun phrase used to describe a concise summary or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While its occurrence is rare, it finds application across diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When using the phrase, remember to maintain variety in your writing by using alternatives like "brief summary". In essence, "a small outline" is a useful phrase for providing a quick overview, but should be used thoughtfully and strategically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief summary

Replaces 'outline' with 'summary', emphasizing the concise nature.

a concise plan

Substitutes 'outline' with 'plan', highlighting the planning aspect.

a short overview

Uses 'overview' instead of 'outline', focusing on a general view.

a quick sketch

Replaces 'outline' with 'sketch', suggesting a preliminary drawing or idea.

a miniature layout

Emphasizes the compactness and arrangement aspect of the outline.

a reduced draft

Focuses on the preliminary and shortened nature of the outline.

a limited scope

Highlights the restricted extent of the outline.

a compact summary

Combines 'compact' and 'summary' to stress brevity and completeness.

a thumbnail version

Compares the outline to a small, representative image.

a pocket-sized plan

Emphasizes the portability and small scale of the plan.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small outline" to introduce a summary or plan. For example: "Let me give you "a small outline" of the project before we begin."

What's a good alternative to "a small outline"?

Alternatives include "a brief summary", "a concise plan", or "a short overview", depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a small outline" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when introducing a condensed version of a larger concept or plan. However, consider the context and audience to determine if a more formal alternative like "a concise synopsis" might be preferable.

Can "a small outline" refer to a visual representation?

While "a small outline" typically refers to a textual summary, it can also describe a simple visual sketch. For example, "The artist created "a small outline" of the landscape before adding details."