a small quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

"a small quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a common phrase used to describe a small amount of something. Example: "Please only use a small quantity of salt in the recipe, as too much can make the dish too salty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Could such a small quantity of quinine cause all this?

The New York Times - Magazine

One knife was found as well as a small quantity of marijuana.

The New York Times

The recipe makes more than you need here as it's hard to make a small quantity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A small quantity of uncooked potato was enough to produce antibodies in mice.

The Guardian

It even smells like one, as glasses are lightly rubbed with a small quantity of ethanol.

The Guardian

Selling a large quantity of diluted cocaine powder, or a small quantity of pure cocaine?

The Guardian - Opinion

In the original design, this is a small quantity of plutonium.

The Guardian

The men demanded drugs and stole a small quantity of cash.

The Guardian

The other lever delivered sometimes a small quantity, sometimes a bonanza.

The Guardian

The police found a small quantity of illegal drugs at the scene, but made no arrests.

The New York Times

There may be a small quantity of tetrodotoxin on the premises.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing precise measurements, follow "a small quantity" with a unit of measure (e.g., "a small quantity of 5 grams").

Common error

Avoid using "a small quantity" when a more specific term would provide clarity and precision. For instance, instead of saying "add a small quantity of water", specify "add 10ml of water".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small quantity" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a limited or reduced amount of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small quantity" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a limited or reduced amount of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, but is particularly frequent in news, science, and general writing. When using this phrase, ensure it provides sufficient clarity and avoid overgeneralization by specifying units of measure when precision is needed. Consider alternatives like ""a minimal amount"" or ""a tiny bit"" for different shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minimal amount

Replaces 'quantity' with 'amount', emphasizing the lack of a substantial measure.

a tiny bit

Uses 'bit' to convey a very small or insignificant portion.

a trace amount

Highlights the presence of something in a barely detectable quantity.

a modicum

Emphasizes a limited or moderate amount, often implying insufficiency.

a dash

Suitable for liquids or powders, suggesting a quick, small addition.

a hint

Suggests a subtle presence or indication of something.

a fraction

Implies a very small part of a whole.

a trickle

Suitable for liquids, indicating a very slow and small flow.

a smidgen

An informal term for a very small quantity, often used in cooking.

a fragment

Implies that only a small piece is available.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small quantity" to describe an amount that is not large or significant. For example, "Only "a small quantity of" the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream."

What are some alternatives to "a small quantity"?

Alternatives to "a small quantity" include "a minimal amount", "a tiny bit", or "a trace amount", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a small quantity" or "a little quantity"?

"A small quantity" is generally preferred over "a little quantity" as it sounds more formal and precise. Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a small quantity" is more commonly used in formal writing.

What's the difference between "a small quantity" and "a small amount"?

While "a small quantity" and "a small amount" are often interchangeable, "quantity" is typically used for things that can be counted or measured precisely, while "amount" can be used more broadly. However, the difference is subtle, and in many contexts, either phrase is acceptable. You could also use "a minimal amount".