as a small group

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a small group" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific, limited number of people working or acting together in a particular context. Example: "As a small group, we decided to tackle the project collaboratively to ensure everyone's input was valued."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It comes across as a small group of Republicans trying to redo an election".

The New York Times

As a small group gathered to wait for the bus, family members shyly introduced themselves.

The New York Times

He sips a beer as a small group of his staffers turn up to say goodbye.

The Guardian

Cuban officials have often dismissed the opposition as a small group financed by the United States.

The New York Times

On previous occasions, the Cuban government has lambasted dissidents as a small group paid off by the United States.

The New York Times

Last November he got down on one knee as a small group of co-workers and tenants looked on.

The New York Times

Rosemarie Fleck was hanging plastic ivy as a small group of parishioners redecorated the church after the Good Friday service.

The New York Times

Ms. Lubich began Focolare as a small group of religious laywomen in northern Italy during World War II.

The New York Times

It became a custom, it seemed, as a small group of American soldiers marched again in 2002 and 2003.

The New York Times

He said district officials have tried to marginalize opponents of the C.P.S. plan as a small group of parents.

The New York Times

He dismissed the holdouts in Morococha as a small group trying to squeeze more money from the company.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a small group", ensure the size and composition of the group are relevant to the context. This phrase works best when the limited number of members directly influences the action or outcome being described.

Common error

Avoid using "as a small group" when the group's size is insignificant to the situation. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make the writing seem unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a small group" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to provide context about how an action was performed or a state was achieved. As Ludwig AI shows, it often introduces a description of how a small number of people acted together.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a small group" functions as a prepositional phrase used to modify verbs or nouns, providing context about the size and nature of a collective action. It is deemed grammatically correct and sees frequent use across various sources, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias and scientific writing. While versatile, it's most effective when the limited number of individuals is pertinent to the described scenario. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and provides multiple examples of usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In a small team

Focuses on the collaborative aspect, highlighting teamwork rather than just size.

Within a limited circle

Emphasizes exclusivity and restriction in the group's composition.

Among a select few

Highlights the chosen or distinguished nature of the group members.

With a handful of individuals

Uses a more informal and descriptive term for a small number.

As a core contingent

Implies the group is essential or central to a larger entity.

Among a restricted set

Stresses the limited and controlled nature of the group membership.

In a close-knit group

Highlights the strong relationships and connections within the small group.

With a small delegation

Suggests the group represents a larger body with specific purpose.

Within a microcosm

Presents group as a small sample, a representative sample of a larger system.

As a minor faction

Highlights the group represents a minority, a part of a bigger party.

FAQs

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

You can use "as a small group" to describe how a limited number of individuals acted or were perceived in a specific situation. For example, "As a small group, they managed to solve the complex problem".

What are some alternatives to "as a small group"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "as a small group" could include "in a small team", "within a limited circle", or "among a select few".

Is it always necessary to specify the size of a group?

No, specifying the size with "as a small group" is only necessary when the limited number of members is a relevant or defining factor in the situation. Otherwise, it may be redundant.

What does it imply when someone is described "as a small group"?

Describing individuals "as a small group" often implies they are acting with limited resources, have a unique perspective due to their size, or face challenges related to their numerical disadvantage.