at a micro scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a micro scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is being examined or analyzed at a very small or detailed level. Example: "The researchers studied the cellular processes at a micro scale to understand the underlying mechanisms of disease."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

At a micro scale it means that many communities simultaneously have unmet needs and underused capacities.

The Guardian

They have developed a series of experiments to measure the effects of nostalgia at a micro scale.

The Guardian

It is not a large leap of the imagination to expect that we will one day be able to break down those social actions, studied on a macro scale, to biological reactions at a micro scale.

The Guardian

Such inhomogeneity leads to non-uniform permeability of the fiber preform, which in turn causes the resin velocity to vary from point to point at a micro scale.

Composites Science and Technology

At a micro scale, the enhancement factor is calculated from the concentration profiles of chemical species in the liquid film around packing materials.

International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

The fuel, oxidant, and the electrolyte solution enter the channel from the inlets and continue to flow in parallel without turbulent mixing (diffusive exchange occurs across the interface at a micro scale).

Microelectronic Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In this empirical analysis we can make some progress towards disentangling the multiple factors in this choice process, and, at the least on a micro scale, we can ask whether there is an observable outcome in fertility choices across US housing markets and whether we can see that in structural outcomes by size and cost (Plane et al, 2005).

Demographic Research

Definitely at a micro-scale.

University of California, Berkeley

At a micro-scale, sandstone reservoir quality is directly affected by texture and diagenesis.

Journal of African Earth Sciences

(The reduction in paper works even at a micro-scale, as discussed in "Shred before reading").But 8.6 billion isn't a number to be sneezed at.

The Economist

Furthermore, optical microscopy and SEM imaging have been conducted at a micro-scale level for a limited number of specimens.

Composite Structures

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at a micro scale", ensure the context clearly contrasts with a macro or broader perspective to emphasize the specific focus of your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "at a micro scale" when the context doesn't involve contrasting it with a larger or macro perspective. It's most effective when emphasizing a specific, detailed focus within a broader system.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a micro scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the level of analysis or observation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

71%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at a micro scale" is a prepositional phrase that serves to specify a detailed or individual level of analysis, often in contrast to a broader perspective. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it clearly contrasts with a macro view to emphasize the specific focus. Alternatives include "on a microscopic level" and "in minute detail". While it's a correct phrase, be mindful of the context to avoid misusing it when a contrast with a larger scale is not implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a microscopic level

Replaces "scale" with "level" and uses the adjective "microscopic" for emphasis on the minute nature of the observation.

in minute detail

Focuses on the thoroughness of the examination rather than the size, implying a detailed analysis.

at a granular level

Emphasizes the fine-grained nature of the analysis, suggesting a focus on individual components.

on a very small scale

Uses the adjective "small" to describe the scale, rather than "micro", while retaining the same core meaning.

at the subatomic level

Specifies an even smaller scale of observation, useful in scientific contexts.

in fine detail

Highlights the precision and thoroughness of the examination at a detailed level.

with a fine-tooth comb

Idiomatic expression signifying a very thorough and detailed examination.

at a close range

Focuses on proximity and direct observation, implying a detailed view.

in microcosm

Implies observing a smaller representation of a larger system.

under the microscope

Uses a literal reference to microscopic observation, implying detailed scrutiny.

FAQs

What does "at a micro scale" mean?

The phrase "at a micro scale" refers to examining something in great detail or at a very small level, often in contrast to a larger, more general perspective.

When is it appropriate to use "at a micro scale" in writing?

Use "at a micro scale" when you want to emphasize the detailed and specific nature of your analysis, especially when comparing it to a broader view. It is appropriate in contexts where you are examining individual components rather than the whole.

What are some alternatives to "at a micro scale"?

You can use alternatives such as "on a microscopic level", "in minute detail", or "at a granular level" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the nuance you wish to emphasize.

How does "at a micro scale" differ from "at a macro scale"?

"At a micro scale" focuses on the smallest details or individual components, while "at a macro scale" considers the larger picture or overall system. Understanding this difference is key to using both terms accurately.