a tiny subset

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tiny subset" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small portion or a limited group within a larger set or category. Example: "In the study, we focused on a tiny subset of participants who met specific criteria."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

The scientists only looked at a tiny subset of genes.

The Guardian

"But these are a tiny subset of people with obesity," he acknowledges.

The Guardian

MIDI synthesizers offer only a tiny subset of the synthesis techniques possible in software.

Stanford University

And only a tiny subset of jinshi were Manchu bannermen, kinsfolk of the emperor.

The Economist

Within the vast body of Holocaust literature a tiny subset has emerged, writings about Holocaust education trauma.

The New York Times

This concerns a tiny subset of the population: child performers and those who read about them in supermarket tabloids.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

By reading a limited number of papers rather than counting them all or dismissing the ones that don't appear in some tiny subset of journals, a study section will better assess an applicant's true impact.

Genetics

It amazed me that this article, which was supposed to be writing about London in general, was focusing on a tiny affluent subset of London.

Independent

"The intention of restricted mode is to filter out mature content for the tiny subset of viewers who want a more limited experience," it reads.

Vice

The intention of Restricted Mode is to filter out mature content for the tiny subset of our users who want a more limited experience.

TechCrunch

In the case of RIG-I and MDA5, evolution has fine-tuned these receptors to exclusively detect and robustly respond to only the tiny subset of foreign RNA species that harbor a particular molecular pattern amongst the sea of cellular self RNA.

BMC Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tiny subset", ensure the context clearly establishes the larger set from which the subset is drawn. This provides a clearer understanding of the small proportion being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "a tiny subset" when the portion you are describing is actually substantial or impactful. Overusing it can diminish the importance of the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tiny subset" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it is frequently used to denote a small portion of a larger group or set.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

30%

Science

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a tiny subset" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase to describe a very small portion of a larger group. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across news, academic, and scientific domains. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly defines the larger group from which the subset originates. While appropriate for formal contexts, be mindful of its impact and consider more formal alternatives, like "minimal subset", if necessary. Avoid exaggeration by reserving "a tiny subset" for genuinely small proportions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minimal subset

Replaces 'tiny' with 'minimal', emphasizing the small size or importance.

a small fraction

Uses 'fraction' instead of 'subset', focusing on the proportional aspect of the small portion.

a limited selection

Emphasizes the act of choosing a few items from a larger pool.

a handful

Uses an informal term to indicate a very small number or amount.

a negligible portion

Highlights that the part is so small it's almost not worth considering.

a restricted number

Focuses on the limited quantity of the group.

a narrow segment

Implies that the group is limited in scope or range.

a minute quantity

Uses 'minute' to emphasize the extremely small amount or size.

a scant few

Highlights how few items are present or considered.

a fringe element

Highlights that the group is not central or mainstream

FAQs

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

You can use "a tiny subset" to refer to a very small group within a larger one. For example: "Only "a tiny subset" of the population is affected by this rare disease."

What are some alternatives to "a tiny subset"?

Alternatives include "a small fraction", "a limited selection", or "a handful", depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a tiny subset" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when precision is needed. However, consider the impact of the word "tiny"; more formal alternatives like "a minimal subset" may be preferable in some contexts.

What's the difference between "a tiny subset" and "a small subset"?

"A tiny subset" emphasizes an even smaller portion than "a small subset". The choice depends on the degree of smallness you wish to convey. You can also use alternatives like "a negligible portion" to highlight insignificance.