a small patch of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small patch of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limited area or section of something, often in a physical or metaphorical context. Example: "In the garden, there was a small patch of wildflowers that added a splash of color to the landscape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nearby is a small patch of wild ginger.

The New York Times

In 1914, Astrup bought a small patch of it for his family.

The Guardian - Arts

He had a shorter haircut yesterday and a small patch of hair under his chin.

The New York Times - Sports

In long dark barns across a small patch of West Yorkshire, a great agricultural tradition continues.

The Guardian

He was sitting in a small patch of grass and leaves, looking increasingly impatient.

The New Yorker

Kate Bradbury gardens on a small patch of land in Brighton.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A barefoot man in shorts swept a small patch of dry lawn.

The New Yorker

Still, the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia controls only a small patch of the capital.

The New York Times

The tracks disappear at the end of the ridge into a small patch of cedar trees.

The New York Times

It is just a bruise!" (I saw clearly there was a small patch of dried blood near the man's hairline).

The New Yorker

Near Fownhope, we even paused for a short walk through Haugh Wood, a small patch of wildness crisscrossed with paths.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces, use "a small patch of" to convey a sense of limited area, such as "a small patch of grass" in a garden or "a small patch of ice" on a road.

Common error

Avoid using "a small patch of" in situations where a more precise or nuanced term would be appropriate. For example, instead of saying "a small patch of understanding", consider using "a limited understanding" or "a basic grasp".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small patch of" primarily functions as a modifier followed by a noun. It serves to describe a limited or localized area, quantity, or extent of the noun it precedes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small patch of" is a versatile phrase used to describe a limited area, quantity, or extent of something. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, it serves to specify and limit the scope of the noun it modifies. While its use is generally neutral, writers should be mindful of overusing it in abstract contexts where more precise alternatives might be appropriate. Top authoritative sources employing this phrase include The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small area of

Focuses more on the spatial aspect of the limited area.

a limited extent of

Emphasizes the restriction or boundary of something.

a tiny bit of

Highlights the diminutive quantity or degree involved.

a restricted section of

Suggests a confined or demarcated portion of something.

a localized portion of

Emphasizes the specific location or confinement of something.

a miniature expanse of

Highlights the reduced size of something.

a negligible amount of

Focuses on the insignificance or unimportance of the quantity.

a confined segment of

Emphasizes the limited or enclosed nature of a segment.

a reduced measure of

Highlights the decreased quantity or scale of something.

a microcosm of

Implies a smaller representation of a larger entity or concept.

FAQs

How can I use "a small patch of" in a sentence?

You can use "a small patch of" to describe a limited area or section, such as "a small patch of wildflowers" or "a small patch of land".

What are some alternatives to "a small patch of"?

Alternatives include "a small area of", "a limited extent of", or "a tiny bit of", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "a small patch of" when referring to abstract concepts?

While grammatically correct, using "a small patch of" for abstract concepts might sound awkward. Consider alternatives like "a limited understanding" or "a basic grasp" for greater clarity.

What is the difference between "a small patch of" and "a small plot of"?

"A small patch of" is a more general term for a limited area, while "a small plot of" specifically refers to a piece of land intended for a specific use, such as gardening or farming.