an increment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an increment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an increase or addition, often in contexts such as mathematics, programming, or project management. Example: "The software update will include an increment in the processing speed, improving overall performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is an increment of 1-2% change.

The Economist

They are now working towards level 3, and will be given an increment once they have completed it.

The Guardian

Both companies will add an increment of the same size when you use up the first.

The New York Times - Tech

A literary critic once said that a family is but an increment of historical time.

The New York Times

Each time such a fragment gives off such an increment of radiation, it is generating heat.

The New York Times

However, an increment in the ethanol production is necessary.

Bioresources and Bioprocessing

Moreover, an increment in slip lengths gives rise to an increment in volumetric flow rate in a proportional way.

Advances in Difference Equations

spectra, increases with an increment of hydrochloric acid concentration.

Polymer

There is an increment in DS with an increment in critical inter-layer thickness in both LG-EVA and LG-PVBcomposites.

Defence Technology

You may choose to call it a "launch," an increment, or some other name.

Huffington Post

This rate is locked at an increment above the current 5- and 10-year U.S. Treasury yields.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an increment", ensure the context clearly defines what is increasing. Specify the units or scale involved for clarity. For example: "The dose was increased by an increment of 5mg daily."

Common error

Avoid using "an increment" when referring to decreases or reductions. Use terms like 'decrement', 'reduction', or 'decrease' instead to accurately reflect the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an increment" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition (e.g., "by an increment of") or as a subject complement. Ludwig highlights its usage in various contexts related to quantifying change or growth.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an increment" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a gradual or measurable increase. Ludwig's analysis confirms that it's frequently found in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. It's essential to specify the units or scale involved for clarity, and to avoid using it when referring to decreases. When looking for semantically similar phrases, alternatives such as "a rise" or "an increase" may also work, but remember that "an increment" often implies a gradual progression. As Ludwig's AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an augmentation

Similar to "an increment" but implies something is added to improve or enhance something else. More formal.

a rise

This is a more general term for an upward movement or increase, applicable in various contexts. It's simpler and more direct than "an increment".

a growth

Describes a general increase in size or amount. It's broader and less specific than "an increment".

a gain

Implies obtaining something beneficial or positive. Focuses on the result of the increase.

an addition

This term is more basic and simply refers to something being added. Lacks the nuanced sense of steady growth.

a boost

This alternative suggests a sudden and significant increase, often in performance or value. It's less formal than "an increment".

an expansion

This phrase highlights the idea of something becoming larger or more extensive. Useful when referring to something that grows.

a step up

This phrase emphasizes progress and advancement, often in a hierarchical or sequential context. It implies moving to a higher level.

a progression

Suggests a series of incremental steps or advancements. Focuses on the process of increasing.

a surge

Implies a sudden and powerful increase. Less gradual than "an increment".

FAQs

How can I use "an increment" in a sentence?

You can use "an increment" to describe a gradual increase or addition. For instance, "The project budget was raised by "an increment" of $10,000" or "We observed "an increment" in sales after the marketing campaign".

What are some alternatives to using "an increment"?

Alternatives to "an increment" include "a rise", "an increase", "a gain", "a boost" or "an augmentation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "an increment of" or "an increment in"?

Both "an increment of" and "an increment in" can be correct, depending on the context. "An increment of" is used to specify the amount of the increase (e.g., "an increment of 10%"), while "an increment in" is used to indicate what is increasing (e.g., "an increment in efficiency").

What's the difference between "an increment" and "an increase"?

While both terms denote a rise or addition, "an increment" often implies a gradual or step-by-step increase, whereas "an increase" is a more general term and doesn't necessarily suggest a gradual process. For example, you might say "The temperature rose by "an increment" of one degree each hour" to suggest a continuous, measurable change.