a small stack of paper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small stack of paper" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a quantity of paper that is organized in a stack and is relatively small in size. Example: "I found a small stack of paper on my desk, filled with notes from last week's meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Charles Barsotti I start with a small stack of paper, good paper that can stand a lot of erasing, because I seldom begin with a specific idea for a cartoon.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Goshen has a small stack of papers sitting on a table beside him, should he need to consult any notes.

TechCrunch

This is impressive: It was just four years ago that Murdoch gave a talk at a digital technology conference clutching a small stack of papers. .  .

TechCrunch

Load a small stack of plain white paper into the printer's input tray.

WikiHow

He pulled out a small stack of photos of a ponytailed girl with a bright smile.

The New York Times

Inside, there is a small stack of schedules by the window.

The New York Times

Grab a small pile of paper towels or toilet paper.

WikiHow

Shaking his head, he hands me a slip of paper from a small stack on which is written ORACLE 75.

Huffington Post

(After reading a comparatively small stack of leadership books, I am in awe of his achievement).

The New Yorker

But until recently, entrepreneurs, trade show exhibitors and other small-business people who sell products on the road had to lug around a bulky machine and a stack of paper slips to process the cards, or risk losing business.

The New York Times

A stack of paper arrived.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a quantity of paper, consider the context. Use "a small stack of paper" to emphasize a neat, organized pile, especially when contrasting it with larger quantities or disorganized piles.

Common error

Avoid using "a small stack of paper" when referring to documents that are individually significant or bulky, even if the number is low. Instead, specify the individual importance or use descriptive adjectives related to their size.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small stack of paper" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify and quantify a specific collection of paper. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in describing physical objects and their arrangement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small stack of paper" is a common noun phrase used to describe a limited and organized quantity of paper. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news articles to instructional guides. While alternatives like "a few sheets of paper" or "a thin stack of paper" exist, the specific choice depends on the context and the nuance you wish to convey. When using the phrase, consider the scale to avoid misrepresentation. Overall, it's a versatile and reliable phrase for everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A few sheets of paper

Focuses on the quantity being limited and the individual sheets rather than a collective stack.

A little pile of paper

Replaces "stack" with "pile", implying a less organized arrangement.

A thin stack of paper

Specifies the stack's thickness as being minimal.

A modest pile of papers

Uses "modest" to describe the size and "papers" instead of "paper".

A handful of pages

Emphasizes the number of pages that can be held in a hand.

A slim bundle of paper

Substitutes "stack" with "bundle", suggesting a tied or wrapped collection.

Several pieces of paper

Highlights individual pieces rather than a combined stack.

A light ream of paper

Indicates a small quantity of paper from a larger unit (ream).

Limited number of documents

Refers to the contents being documents instead of general paper.

Scarce paperwork

Emphasizes the lack of paperwork rather than a specific amount.

FAQs

How can I use "a small stack of paper" in a sentence?

You can use "a small stack of paper" to describe a limited number of sheets neatly arranged. For example, "He placed "a small stack of paper" on the desk before starting his presentation".

What's a good alternative to "a small stack of paper"?

Alternatives include "a few sheets of paper", "a little pile of paper", or "a thin stack of paper" depending on the level of precision needed.

Is it more appropriate to say "a small stack of paper" or "a few sheets of paper"?

The choice depends on the context. "A small stack of paper" implies organization, while "a few sheets of paper" simply indicates quantity without necessarily suggesting neat arrangement.

What does "a small stack of paper" suggest about the situation?

It suggests a manageable amount of paperwork or notes, possibly indicating preparation or organization, rather than being overwhelmed by a large volume of materials.