as a small amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a small amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a quantity that is limited or minimal in size or extent. Example: "The recipe calls for sugar, but you can use it as a small amount to reduce sweetness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

A composite containing MoSi2 and NbSi2 as well as a small amount of Nb5Si3 is formed.

Journal of the European Ceramic Society

Mr. Karzai described the sums delivered by the C.I.A. as a "small amount," though he offered few other details.

The New York Times

While those searches turned up what the police describe as "a small amount of marijuana" on Mr. Carter, who was black, officers did not find a gun.

The New York Times

Slurry surging out of the grinding chamber carries mill product as well as a small amount of balls through the trunnion and into the trommel for classification.

Minerals Engineering

Evonik Aeroxide P25 (formerly Degussa P25) is a flame-made multiphasic TiO2 nanoparticles containing anatase and rutile, as well as a small amount of amorphous TiO2.

Catalysis Today

The collection contains materials related to his scholarship and teaching, including many handwritten notes alongside articles and newspaper clippings on topics within International Relations, as well as a small amount of personal material and correspondence.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

A typical topical file contains clippings related to the subject, as well as possibly a small amount of correspondence or memos related to the subject at hand.

Columbia University

ReprintsPrivate firms in OPEC countries have funnelled their money into American and European banks, as well as into a small amount of imports.

The Economist

Disclaimer: I actively trade cryptocurrencies, as well as hold a small amount of BTC, ETH, LTC, XMR, NEO, ZEC, BEAM, BCH, Ethos, and various insignificant altcoin positions.

Forbes

As well as providing a small amount of money for subsistence, NASS also provides accommodation at various Local Authority council sites across the UK.

BMC Health Services Research

"When they have class action waivers, these companies can pretty much steal from their customers as long as it's a small amount," Kinney said.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a small amount", ensure the context clearly defines what is being measured or quantified. For example, "Use 'as a small amount' of salt in the recipe."

Common error

Avoid using "as a small amount" when the quantity is actually significant or substantial. This can mislead the reader and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a small amount" functions as a prepositional phrase, often introducing a clause that explains a condition, reason, or circumstance relating to a limited quantity. Ludwig shows its use in both formal and informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a small amount" functions as a prepositional phrase, used to indicate a limited quantity and provide context or justification. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, including science, news, and academia. While alternatives exist, such as "in limited quantities", the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. It's crucial to use the phrase appropriately, avoiding exaggeration and ensuring clarity in the measured quantity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in limited quantities

Emphasizes restriction in the amount available or used.

to a minimal extent

Highlights the insignificance of the degree or impact.

in modest proportions

Suggests a balanced and restrained quantity.

a trace of

Indicates an extremely small and often barely detectable amount.

a touch of

Implies a slight addition or presence, often used figuratively.

a hint of

Similar to "a touch of", but often used to describe subtle qualities or flavors.

a smattering of

Suggests a scattering or sparse distribution of something.

a trickle of

Implies a slow and continuous flow of a small quantity.

in negligible amounts

Stresses the unimportance due to the minimal quantity.

to a certain degree

Highlights the insignificance of the degree or impact.

FAQs

How can I use "as a small amount" in a sentence?

You can use "as a small amount" to indicate a limited quantity, for example, "The recipe requires sugar, but you can use "a small amount" to reduce the sweetness."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "as a small amount"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "in limited quantities", "to a minimal extent", or "in modest proportions" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "as a small amount"?

While grammatically correct, "as a small amount" may not be suitable if a more precise term is available. Consider whether a numerical value or a more descriptive adjective would enhance clarity.

What's the difference between "as a small amount" and "a small amount of"?

"As a small amount" typically introduces a reason or condition, while "a small amount of" directly quantifies something. For instance, "As a small amount was needed, the experiment was quick" versus "We used a small amount of the chemical".