a tiny number

USAGE SUMMARY

"a tiny number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a very small quantity of items, such as people, objects, or payments. For example, "We only had a tiny number of volunteers for the summer camp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In the vote on Iraq a decade ago, only a tiny number of Tory MPs opposed the invasion.

The Guardian - Opinion

But that's a tiny number.

Independent

"It's such a tiny number," he said.

The New York Times

This again is in a tiny number of cases.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's a tiny number when you view it in perspective.

The New Yorker

For one, burglars are a tiny number of people.

The Guardian

A tiny number of tests show sex differences.

The Guardian - Opinion

But so far it affects only a tiny number of people in these places.

The Economist

But even if these laws prevent only a tiny number of fraudulent votes, aren't they worthwhile?

The New York Times

The issue directly affects only a tiny number of students; no one knows how many.

The New York Times

Most Jews were recent immigrants, he added, and only a tiny number owned plantations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tiny number", ensure the context clearly establishes what the number is tiny compared to. This provides necessary context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a tiny number" when the actual number is known and potentially impactful, even if small. Stating the specific quantity is more precise and informative. For example, instead of "a tiny number of errors", say "three critical errors" if the actual count is three.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tiny number" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a very small quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing limited amounts, aligning with examples where it quantifies people, objects, or occurrences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tiny number" is a versatile phrase used to denote a very small quantity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. Usage is particularly common in news, media, and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by providing context and avoid using it when a specific number would be more informative. Consider alternatives like "a small quantity" or "a handful" for nuanced expression. Remember, while versatile, opting for precise figures over generalities enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small quantity

Emphasizes the limited amount or measure of something.

a handful

Suggests a quantity that can be held in one hand, implying a very small number.

a scant few

Highlights the insufficiency or barely adequate number of items.

a negligible amount

Indicates that the quantity is so small it's practically insignificant.

a mere fraction

Implies that the quantity is only a small part of the whole.

a limited number

Focuses on the restriction or constraint on the quantity.

a trickle

Describes a very slow or small flow or amount.

an insignificant number

Suggests that the number is not worth considering due to its small size.

a sparse amount

Emphasizes the thinly distributed or scattered nature of the quantity.

a deficit of

Used to express that there is something missing. Not interchangeable in all situations, but it fits well when expressing something that lacks "a tiny number" of something.

FAQs

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

Use "a tiny number" to indicate a very small quantity. For example, "Only "a tiny number" of students passed the exam", showing that very few students succeeded.

What are some alternatives to "a tiny number"?

You can use alternatives like "a small quantity", "a handful", or "a scant few" to express a similar idea.

When is it appropriate to use "a tiny number" instead of a specific number?

It's appropriate when the exact number is either unknown or unimportant, and the emphasis is on the insignificance of the quantity. If precision is needed, use a specific number.

Is "a tiny number" formal or informal?

"A tiny number" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal writing might benefit from more precise language depending on the situation.