a smaller quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smaller quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing amounts or sizes, indicating that one amount is less than another. Example: "In this experiment, we will use a smaller quantity of the chemical to observe its effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Price was one reason - they could get a bigger hit with a smaller quantity compared with other drugs.

The Guardian

4) There will be enough pastry to make two tart cases but it isn't practicable to make a smaller quantity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Fry's counterpart of French Champagne consists primarily of pinot noir for depth; a smaller quantity of chardonnay adds zip.

The New York Times

But kumiss-making also produces a smaller quantity of fermented whey, a clear liquid that rises to the top and can be drawn off for separate enjoyment.

The New York Times

He's right, although, for a smaller quantity of porridge, I think five or so is sufficient – not only is the porridge just cool enough to eat, but it seems to have developed a bit more flavour in the meantime.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

According to Jia Choi, president of O'ngo Food Communications, a cookery school in Seoul, kimchi forms the basis of a perfectly balanced meal: several dishes made with seasonal vegetables, with a smaller quantity of rice or noodle dishes providing the carbohydrate.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Could such a small quantity of quinine cause all this?

The New York Times - Magazine

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

The Guardian - Opinion

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

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

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

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two amounts, clarify what the "smaller quantity" is being compared to for better clarity. For example, "Use a smaller quantity of sugar than the recipe suggests."

Common error

Avoid using "a smaller quantity" without specifying what it's smaller than. This can lead to ambiguity. Instead of saying "Use a smaller quantity", specify "Use a smaller quantity of water than oil."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smaller quantity" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically modifying a noun to indicate that the amount or number of something is less than another. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples showcase its use in various contexts to express relative diminution.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a smaller quantity" is a versatile expression used to denote a reduced amount or number of something in comparison to something else. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly found in both scientific and journalistic contexts. For clarity, always specify what the "smaller quantity" is being compared to. Consider using alternatives like "a reduced amount" or "a lesser quantity" to add variety to your writing. Remember to avoid vagueness by always providing a reference point for the comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reduced amount

Focuses on the reduction in the overall amount, emphasizing the action of decreasing.

a lesser amount

Highlights the diminished quantity in comparison to something else.

a lower quantity

Emphasizes the reduced level or number of items.

a smaller volume

Specifically refers to the diminished size or capacity.

a decreased quantity

Highlights the fact that the quantity has been actively reduced.

a more limited quantity

Indicates that the amount available is restricted or not abundant.

a slighter amount

Implies a marginal or barely noticeable reduction in quantity.

a diminished quantity

Stresses the idea that the quantity has become less significant.

a lighter quantity

Suggests that the weight or burden associated with the quantity is reduced.

a trace amount

Indicates an extremely small, almost negligible quantity.

FAQs

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

Use "a smaller quantity" when you want to indicate that the amount of something is less than another. For instance, "We used "a smaller quantity" of dye in the second batch."

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

"A smaller quantity" often refers to discrete, countable items, whereas "a lower amount" can refer to something measurable but not necessarily countable, like volume or intensity. However, the two are often interchangeable.

Is it correct to say "a smaller quantity of" or "a smaller amount of"?

Both are grammatically correct. "A smaller quantity of" is generally used with countable nouns (e.g. a smaller quantity of apples). "A smaller amount of" works well for both countable and uncountable nouns (e.g. a smaller amount of water).

What are some alternatives to using "a smaller quantity" in writing?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "a reduced amount", "a lesser quantity", or simply "less".