a tiny dictionary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tiny dictionary" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a small-sized dictionary, often implying that it is portable or concise. Example: "I always carry a tiny dictionary in my bag for quick reference when I encounter unfamiliar words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I have a tiny dictionary.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

If you looked up "midlist author" in the dictionary, you might find a tiny black-and-white picture of me in the margin.

The New York Times - Magazine

Walking into her office, where a tiny man appears to be playing the fiddle on her desk, Crosbie puts down her overly-large dictionary.

Vice

It panders to a tiny, tiny minority.

The New York Times

A tiny smile.

Independent

A tiny aphid.

The New York Times - Science

A tiny bit lame?

Independent

A tiny example.

The New York Times - Books

A tiny hand.

The New Yorker

A tiny, tiny monkey.

The New Yorker

There was a tiny smear.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tiny dictionary" to emphasize the small size or portability of the dictionary. This can be particularly useful in contexts where space is limited, or convenience is important.

Common error

Avoid using "a tiny dictionary" when a simple "small dictionary" will suffice. Overusing "tiny" can sound repetitive or condescending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tiny dictionary" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "tiny" modifies the noun "dictionary". It describes a specific type of dictionary characterized by its small size. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a tiny dictionary" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to describe a dictionary that is small in size, as confirmed by Ludwig. While Ludwig AI reports the phrase is correct and usable, its frequency is rare, tending towards neutral to informal contexts. For more formal settings, alternatives like "small dictionary" or "compact dictionary" may be more appropriate. When using "a tiny dictionary", emphasize its portability without overusing the adjective "tiny" to avoid sounding repetitive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Small dictionary

Replaces "tiny" with a more common synonym, maintaining a similar level of informality.

Pocket dictionary

Emphasizes portability and convenience, suggesting a dictionary designed to be carried easily.

Concise dictionary

Highlights the dictionary's brevity and focus on essential definitions.

Miniature dictionary

Uses a more formal synonym for "tiny", suitable for a slightly more elevated context.

Compact dictionary

Focuses on the space-saving aspect of the dictionary, suggesting it's efficiently designed.

Abridged dictionary

Implies that the dictionary is a shortened version of a larger, more comprehensive work.

Small-scale dictionary

A more descriptive way to express that the dictionary is not large.

Limited dictionary

Highlights that the dictionary has a selection of words more limited than usual.

Basic dictionary

Conveys that the dictionary contains only fundamental vocabulary and definitions.

Elementary dictionary

Suggests the dictionary is designed for beginners or those with a limited vocabulary.

FAQs

How can I use "a tiny dictionary" in a sentence?

You might say, "I always carry "a tiny dictionary" in my bag when I travel", or "She consulted "a tiny dictionary" to find the correct spelling".

What are some alternatives to saying "a tiny dictionary"?

You can use alternatives like "small dictionary", "pocket dictionary", or "concise dictionary" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a tiny dictionary" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a tiny dictionary" may sound informal. In formal writing, consider using "small dictionary" or "compact dictionary" for a more professional tone.

What makes "a tiny dictionary" different from a regular dictionary?

The term "a tiny dictionary" implies that the dictionary is significantly smaller in size and scope compared to a standard dictionary, often prioritizing portability and conciseness over comprehensiveness.