although few

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "although few" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or exception regarding a limited number of people, things, or instances. Example: "Although few attended the meeting, the discussion was productive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The splinter convention is used worldwide, although few know its origins.

The New York Times - Arts

Several of Bridgewater's compositions survive, although few have been recorded.

The Guardian - Music

They go for 200 times that today, although few remain.

The New York Times

But videotapes of police beatings are actually not so rare, although few come to national attention.

The New York Times

Mr. Bezos started Blue Origin in 2000, although few people knew about it then.

The New York Times - Science

Although few knew it at the time, Van Doesburg's active involvement in Dada predates all this.

The Guardian - Arts

(It's optional, although few are likely to turn this feature off, except possibly ad executives).

The New York Times - Tech

The setting is an isolated fishing village, although few fishermen now remain.

The Guardian - Books

Although few analysts recommend TRW stock, many gave Mr. Cote an A for effort.

The New York Times

Del Cossa was a real person, although few of his works survive.

The Guardian - Books

Although few doubt Exum's potential, he is evidently still some way from NBA all-star status.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "although few", ensure the subsequent clause provides a meaningful contrast. For instance, "Although few attended, the meeting was productive."

Common error

Avoid using "although few" when the contrast is insignificant or nonexistent. The clause following "although few" should present a noticeable divergence or unexpected result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "although few" functions as an adverbial clause introducer, setting up a contrast between a limited quantity or number and a subsequent statement. Ludwig examples show it creating a concession or exception, as in "Although few knew it at the time..."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "although few" functions as a conjunction introducing a contrast or exception, typically followed by a statement that might be unexpected given the limited quantity. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media and scientific writing. When using "although few", ensure there is a clear contrast in the sentence and consider alternatives like "even though there are only a few" or "despite the fact that there are few" for varied expression. Understanding its proper context will help you write with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even though there are only a few

This alternative provides a more explicit and slightly more emphatic way of expressing the limited quantity.

despite the fact that there are few

This alternative uses a more formal structure to indicate the contrast.

while only a small number

This alternative highlights the limited quantity using "small number".

though a handful

This alternative uses "handful" to emphasize the small number, adding a more descriptive element.

even if only a minority

This alternative emphasizes that it's a minority involved.

granted that a small number

This alternative uses 'granted that' to concede the limited quantity before making a statement.

in spite of the limited quantity

This alternative explicitly mentions the 'limited quantity', making it more descriptive.

notwithstanding the scarcity

This alternative employs more formal language like 'notwithstanding' and 'scarcity'.

with only a smattering

Using "smattering" emphasizes the dispersed and minimal nature of the quantity.

albeit a small contingent

This alternative uses "contingent", suggesting a specific group, and "albeit" for a formal tone.

FAQs

How can I use "although few" in a sentence?

Use "although few" to introduce a contrast or exception. For example, "Although few knew it, the event was a success." The first part sets up a limited expectation, while the second part provides the contrasting outcome.

What phrases are similar to "although few"?

Similar phrases include "even though there are only a few", "despite the fact that there are few", or "while only a small number". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it always necessary to include a comma after "although few"?

Yes, when "although few" introduces a clause, it is generally followed by a comma to separate it from the main clause. For instance, "Although few were selected, their contributions were significant."

What's the difference between "although few" and "although some"?

"Although few" indicates a small number, while "although some" suggests a more indefinite quantity, potentially larger than "few". Using "although some" implies that there's a notable portion, while "although few" emphasizes the limited nature of that portion.