by a small amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a small amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a slight difference or change in quantity, degree, or extent. Example: "The temperature increased by a small amount, making it slightly more comfortable outside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For example, dominoes will always slip by a small amount.

MIT Technology Review

The predictions were off, and not by a small amount.

The Guardian

Missing analyst estimates, even by a small amount, can lead to significant negative reactions from investors.

Columbia University

If they're getting better, then the lens is moved again by a small amount.

Stanford University

At the same time, he would raise the payroll tax by a small amount on everyone.

The Washington Post

Only the Japanese yen has outpaced it, and that by a small amount.

The New York Times

"We finished dead last and not by a small amount," Barker said.

The New York Times - Sports

Chandra's gyros are designed to produce an electrical pulse whenever Chandra's pointing direction changes by a small amount.

Harvard University

"It will reduce credit volume by a small amount -- not much compared to the overall volume," he said.

The New York Times

Eduardo's foie gras was very different: it was a whole lot of liver enhanced by a small amount of fat.

The Guardian

A slight stretch reduces the modulus of AlLi by a small amount.

Acta Materialia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by a small amount" to precisely indicate a minimal change or difference, ensuring clarity in quantitative descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "by a small amount" when the change is actually substantial; this can mislead the reader about the true extent of the difference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a small amount" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the extent or degree to which something changes or differs. Ludwig shows it is frequently used to qualify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, adding precision to descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by a small amount" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier, indicating a slight or minimal change. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards informal due to its simplicity. When using this phrase, ensure the change being described is indeed minimal to avoid misleading the reader. Consider formal alternatives like "to a limited extent" or "marginally" for a more sophisticated tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly

A simple and direct way to indicate a small degree or extent.

to a slight degree

Focuses on the minimal or subtle nature of the change or effect.

to a small extent

Similar to "to a limited extent", but places more emphasis on the size.

marginally

Suggests the change or difference is at the very edge of being noticeable.

in a small measure

Uses "measure" to denote a small amount of something.

to a limited extent

Emphasizes the restriction or constraint on the degree or quantity.

by a fraction

Implies the amount is less than a whole, indicating a small part.

in a minor way

Highlights the insignificance or unimportance of the impact.

just a bit

Informal way of indicating a small quantity or change.

hardly

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the change, implying it's almost non-existent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by a small amount" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "to a limited extent", "to a slight degree", or "marginally". These options add a layer of sophistication compared to the more casual phrase "by a small amount".

Is it always necessary to quantify "by a small amount"?

While not always necessary, quantifying the "small amount" with specific numbers or percentages can enhance precision and provide a clearer understanding for the reader. However, in some contexts, the general indication of a minimal change is sufficient.

What is the difference between "slightly" and "by a small amount"?

"Slightly" is an adverb that directly modifies a verb or adjective, while "by a small amount" is a prepositional phrase that provides more context about the degree of change. For instance, "The temperature increased slightly" versus "The temperature increased "by a small amount"".

When should I NOT use the phrase "by a small amount"?

Avoid using "by a small amount" when the actual change or difference is significant or substantial. Using it in such cases can be misleading and undermine the accuracy of your statement. Instead, opt for phrases like "considerably", "significantly", or "substantially" as appropriate.