Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a small summary
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a small summary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a short overview of a longer piece of writing. For example: "This report contains a small summary of the research findings."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(20)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
8 human-written examples
A random-effects model calculated a small summary effect size of 0.039 955% confidence interval −0.013 to 0.092).
Science
When you receive an email from someone not in your contacts list, it places a small summary below the email message.
News & Media
That is only a small summary of what we have accomplished together.
News & Media
In round 2 a second survey was sent to the same respondents, which started off with a small summary of the previous round.
Science
Reviewer #1: 1) It would be useful to present a small summary table comparing the four parameters of dynamic instability (i.e. growth rate, shrinkage rate, catastrophe frequency and rescue frequency) displayed by the phage tubulin compared to eukaryotic tubulins.
Science
The release of the new obo version is then announced to the three mailing lists stated above together with a small summary of the new and/or changed terms.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
51 human-written examples
The Reduce stage is often used to produce "summary" data, turning a large volume of data into a smaller summary of itself.
Science
GS1 losslessly compresses the input network, producing a smaller summary network and a list of corrections to over-generalizations in the summary.
Science
Leave a thankful note and small summary on a larger notepad.
Wiki
PS: I know you're not going to get round to reading all 12 volumes, so I've kindly done you a small executive summary.
News & Media
Give a small executive summary of the meeting Create a table or chart with the following columns: number, action or activity, initiator, owner, responsible person, remarks ( target time, comments..) If needed, you can add the risk factors (if the action is not completed, what will happen? ).
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "a small summary", ensure it accurately represents the core content of the original material. Focus on key points and avoid unnecessary details to maintain brevity and clarity.
Common error
Avoid making "a small summary" too simplistic or generic. While brevity is important, ensure you still capture the essence and crucial aspects of the information to provide a meaningful overview.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a small summary" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a verb. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase introduces a brief, condensed version of a more detailed text or event.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "a small summary" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for denoting a concise overview. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it is found across diverse contexts, including science and news media. When employing this phrase, ensure the summary is both brief and accurately reflective of the core information. Alternatives such as "brief overview" and "short recap" offer similar meanings depending on the specific nuance desired.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a brief overview
Emphasizes conciseness and the broad nature of the coverage.
a concise synopsis
Highlights succinctness and provides a structured summary.
a short recap
Implies a quick review of previously discussed information.
a thumbnail sketch
Suggests a very brief and often preliminary outline.
a compact digest
Conveys a condensed and easily digestible version.
a reduced version
Focuses on the abridged aspect, implying the original exists in a larger form.
an abridged account
Suggests a shortened narrative or description.
a curtailed abstract
Emphasizes the reduced length and formal nature of the summary.
a scaled-down report
Implies a smaller version of a more comprehensive report.
a light precis
Indicates a simplified and less detailed summary.
FAQs
How can I use "a small summary" in a sentence?
You can use "a small summary" to introduce a brief overview of a topic, such as: "The report begins with "a small summary" of the key findings" or "Here’s "a small summary" of the main points discussed in the meeting".
What are some alternatives to "a small summary"?
Instead of "a small summary", consider using phrases like "brief overview", "concise synopsis", or "short recap" depending on the specific context.
Is it appropriate to use "a small summary" in formal writing?
Yes, "a small summary" is generally acceptable in formal writing, though alternatives like "executive summary" or "concise synopsis" might be more appropriate in certain contexts depending on audience.
What distinguishes "a small summary" from a longer, more detailed summary?
"A small summary" is characterized by its brevity and focus on the most essential information, while a longer summary includes more details and context. The choice depends on the reader's needs and the purpose of the document.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested