a smaller quantity of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smaller quantity of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a reduced amount of something in comparison to another quantity. Example: "In this experiment, we will use a smaller quantity of the chemical to observe its effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

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

Osteoporosis is the radiological image of osteopenia, a pathological concept meaning a smaller quantity of bone per unit of volume.

Injury

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

In addition, a rotary damper also utilizes a smaller quantity of MR fluid, which is a significant contribution for cost reduction.

Materials & Design

The dissociation of smaller amounts of ozone entails the production of less amounts of O 1D) destroying a smaller quantity of water vapor.

Advances in Space Research

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 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

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

It even smells like one, as glasses are lightly rubbed with a small quantity of ethanol.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing amounts, clearly state what you are comparing "a smaller quantity of" something to. For example: "Use a smaller quantity of salt compared to sugar."

Common error

Avoid using "a smaller quantity of" without specifying a point of reference. For example, instead of saying "Use a smaller quantity of water", clarify "Use a smaller quantity of water than the previous recipe recommended."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smaller quantity of" functions as a prepositional modifier, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase by specifying a reduced amount or portion. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and offers examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a smaller quantity of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to indicate a reduced amount or portion, as demonstrated by Ludwig. It is particularly common in scientific, journalistic, and academic contexts. While acceptable across various registers, it leans towards a neutral or slightly formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the quantity is being compared to. Alternatives such as "a lesser amount of" or "a reduced volume of" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lesser amount of

Replaces "quantity" with "amount", focusing on the total sum rather than discrete units.

a reduced volume of

Substitutes "quantity" with "volume", specifically referring to space occupied.

a diminished supply of

Changes "quantity" to "supply", emphasizing availability or provision.

a lower proportion of

Shifts the focus to relative size within a whole, rather than absolute amount.

a slighter degree of

Replaces "quantity" with "degree", indicating intensity or extent.

a more limited extent of

Emphasizes the restriction or boundary of something, not just the amount.

a narrower scope of

Focuses on the range or breadth affected, rather than the sheer number.

a fainter trace of

Highlights the subtlety or near absence of something, suggesting minimal presence.

a scarcer measure of

Replaces "quantity" with "measure" highlighting the aspect of scarcity.

a tinier fraction of

Highlights the small part or component something represents.

FAQs

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

Use "a smaller quantity of" to indicate a reduced amount of something compared to another amount. For instance, "The recipe calls for "a smaller quantity of" sugar than I usually use".

What are some alternatives to "a smaller quantity of"?

You can use phrases like "a lesser amount of", "a reduced volume of", or "a diminished supply of" to express a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a smaller quantity of"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It is a common and accepted phrase used to describe a reduced amount of something.

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

While both phrases are similar, "quantity" often refers to countable or discrete items, whereas "amount" is generally used for non-countable or continuous substances. However, they are frequently used interchangeably.