a small platform

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small platform" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical or metaphorical space that is limited in size, often for a specific purpose or function. Example: "The artist stood on a small platform to address the crowd during the outdoor event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Helpfully, His Majesty ascends a small platform during public functions.

The New York Times - Books

Three: a small platform acts as a shock absorber.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Drivers stand on a small platform and control the vehicles by leaning in different directions.

The Guardian

The three activists are said to be 30m above sea level on a small platform.

The Guardian

A small platform extended out from the building and I climbed on it.

The New Yorker

It stood, and still stands, in an enclosure built on a small platform, Structure A-9.

Harvard University

Up to now, Mr. Crane had managed to speak loudly from a small platform.

The New York Times

You have a small platform where you get ready before you jump.

The New York Times

On the slope opposite, a small platform folds down to create a cantilevered stage.

The New York Times - Style

An enormous Puerto Rican flag stands in front of the prison, near a small platform decorated with yellow ribbons.

The New York Times

The theater itself is a small platform; eight wooden benches, which seat about 30 people, angle toward the window.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical structure, ensure the context clarifies the platform's purpose and dimensions for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a small platform" without providing context. Clarify what the platform is used for or its significance in the scenario to improve clarity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small platform" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness, with numerous examples demonstrating its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

21%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small platform" is a grammatically sound and versatile noun phrase that can refer to both physical and metaphorical spaces. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While the phrase itself is straightforward, writers should consider the specific context to ensure clarity, avoiding overuse without detailed descriptions. Related phrases like ""a modest stage"" or ""a compact dais"" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a modest stage

Replaces 'platform' with 'stage', implying a performance or presentation area but maintains the 'small' size.

a compact dais

Substitutes 'platform' with 'dais', suggesting a raised platform, typically for speakers or dignitaries, while keeping the size small.

a limited stage

Replaces the physical dimension with a qualifier about the limited possibilities available.

a little riser

Replaces 'platform' with 'riser', suggesting a raised structure used to elevate something, and uses 'little' to indicate its small size.

a restricted deck

Uses 'deck' as a synonym for platform, implying a flat surface, but emphasizes its restricted size.

a miniature staging

Replaces 'platform' with 'staging', a synonym in theatrical contexts, while 'miniature' denotes very small scale.

a reduced podium

Substitutes 'platform' with 'podium', implying a raised platform for public speaking, and uses 'reduced' to denote its small size.

a confined base

Replaces 'platform' with 'base', suggesting a foundation or support, while 'confined' denotes its limited space.

a minor terrace

Replaces 'platform' with 'terrace', implying a raised, flat area, and 'minor' indicates a small size or importance.

a limited area

Offers a more general alternative, focusing on the small size and specific use of the area without directly mentioning a raised structure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small platform" to describe a physical area such as "The speaker stood on "a small platform" to address the audience", or a metaphorical space, such as "The blog provided "a small platform" for new writers".

What are some synonyms for "a small platform"?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms such as "a modest stage", "a compact dais", or "a little riser".

Is it more formal to say "a small platform" or "a tiny platform"?

"A small platform" is generally more neutral and suitable for various contexts. "A tiny platform" might be perceived as less formal and is best used when emphasizing the extremely small size.

Can "a small platform" refer to something other than a physical object?

Yes, "a small platform" can also be used metaphorically to describe an opportunity or outlet for expression, influence, or action, much like how a physical platform provides a base for standing or performing.