a small reduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small reduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor decrease in quantity, size, or degree of something. Example: "The company announced a small reduction in prices for the upcoming sale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The authors also found a small reduction in blood pressure in people who had more potassium.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At best, corn ethanol delivers only a small reduction in greenhouse gases compared with gasoline.

The New York Times

For gasoline, it takes only a small reduction in supply to trigger large price hikes.

The New York Times

Early in his Presidency, Obama did initiate a small reduction in our nuclear arsenal.

The New Yorker

The players have offered to accept a small reduction in the share of revenue they receive.

The New York Times

One percent added to copper increases its strength and hardness with only a small reduction in electrical conductivity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is a small reduction of the current output of 33.24m bpd and was agreed at informal talks at an industry event in Algiers on Wednesday.

The Guardian - Business

"With the release date change of The Good Dinosaur, we have realigned our production and support priorities, which includes a small reduction in our staffing levels".

The Guardian - Film

In a few pilots there was a small reduction in A&E attendances, but the savings were minuscule compared with the amount spent on weekend access.

The Guardian

If a feared downturn failed to occur, for example, a small reduction in interest rates would be less likely to stoke future inflation.

The New York Times

BBC1 would see a small reduction in peak-time entertainment shows and the number of repeats aired in peak time would rise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small reduction", quantify the reduction whenever possible to provide context and clarity. For example, instead of just saying "a small reduction in costs", specify "a 5% reduction in costs".

Common error

Avoid using "a small reduction" when the actual reduction is significant. Overstating the impact of a minor reduction can mislead the audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small reduction" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis of example sentences confirms its role in describing a decrease or lessening. It quantifies the extent of the decrease as 'small'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small reduction" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a minor decrease. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and scientific reporting. While it's crucial to quantify the reduction for clarity and avoid overstating its impact, the phrase remains a versatile and professional way to convey information about modest lessenings. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight decrease

Focuses on the action of lessening, implying a gradual decline.

a minor decline

Emphasizes the downward trend and its relative insignificance.

a marginal drop

Highlights the minimal extent of the fall.

a modest cutback

Suggests a deliberate curtailment that is not substantial.

a limited lessening

Stresses the boundaries or constraints on the reduction.

a fractional decrease

Emphasizes the extremely small nature of the reduction using the term 'fractional'.

a gentle easing

Implies a gradual and smooth decrease, softening the impact.

a shade of diminution

Uses 'shade' to suggest the subtleness of the reduction.

a soupcon of curtailment

Employs a French term to convey a very slight reduction.

a hint of abbreviation

Focuses on the shortening or condensing aspect of a slight decrease.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small reduction" to describe a minor decrease in quantity, size, or degree. For instance, "The company announced "a small reduction" in its carbon emissions."

What are some alternatives to "a small reduction"?

Alternatives include "a slight decrease", "a minor decline", or "a marginal drop". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "a small reduction" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to describe a minor decrease. However, ensure that the level of detail is suitable for your audience.

What's the difference between "a small reduction" and "a significant reduction"?

"A small reduction" indicates a minor decrease, while "a significant reduction" implies a substantial or noteworthy decrease. Choosing the right phrase depends on the actual magnitude of the change you're describing.