a small variety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small variety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a limited selection or range of items, options, or types within a particular category. Example: "The store offers a small variety of organic fruits and vegetables, catering to health-conscious customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

His mother, for a time, ran a small variety store.

The New York Times

"Meanwhile, I'll turn my attention to a small variety of bao buns".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He probably used only a small variety of colours and avoided elaborate perspective.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A small variety of mollusks is present in the shelly fauna of the earliest Cambrian.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon arriving in New York, she opened a small variety store on Hester Street, and sent for her family.

The New Yorker

Being one in a small variety of basic eyeglass styles, my frames were always available — until, that is, they were not.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

A smaller variety, called the loligo, the choice of Italians, Spanish and Portuguese, abounds to the south.

The New York Times

Slim Jim is a smaller variety, so doesn't need such sustained warmth to ripen, making it a more reliable cropper in our sometimes less-than-sunny climate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But you can still have one and make it behave, by pruning it every year right after it blooms or by choosing a smaller variety.

The New York Times

Slim Jim is a smaller variety, so doesn't need such sustained warmth to ripen, making it a more reliable cropper in our sometimes less-than-sunny climate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Because lines of stem cells created in this way have only one parent, they are immunologically simpler than normal embryonic cells in other words they have a smaller variety of the proteins that trigger rejection.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small variety", consider the specific context to determine if a more precise term (e.g., "limited selection", "narrow range") would be more informative for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a small variety" when the actual selection is exceptionally limited or nearly nonexistent. In such cases, terms like "a very limited selection" or "almost no variety" would be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small variety" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a limited selection or range, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples, which show it modifying nouns like "methods", "sausages", and "channels".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

25%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small variety" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates a limited selection or range of items or options. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. While the phrase is generally neutral, writers should consider whether a more specific term might better convey the intended meaning. Understanding its common usage and potential for overstatement ensures accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited selection

Emphasizes the restriction on the choice available.

a narrow range

Highlights the limited scope or extent.

a handful of options

Suggests a very small and manageable number of choices.

a restricted assortment

Focuses on the limited and controlled nature of the collection.

a modest array

Implies a humble and unpretentious collection.

a scarce quantity

Emphasizes the rarity or limited availability.

a reduced number

Highlights the diminished quantity compared to a previous or expected amount.

a select few

Suggests that the items are carefully chosen and limited.

a concise compilation

Highlights that it's a short and complete summary of items.

a miniature collection

Implies that the items are small replicas of original items.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small variety" to describe a limited selection of items or options. For example, "The store offers "a small variety" of imported cheeses."

What can I say instead of "a small variety"?

You can use alternatives like "a limited selection", "a narrow range", or "a handful of options" depending on the context.

Is "a small variety" formal or informal?

"A small variety" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more precise language might be preferred in formal writing.

What's the difference between "a small variety" and "a wide variety"?

"A small variety" indicates a limited selection, while "a wide variety" implies a diverse and extensive selection.