by a small number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a small number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is limited or restricted to a few individuals or items. Example: "The project was completed by a small number of dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Rather, more guns are being stockpiled by a small number of individuals.

University of California, Berkeley

Grassland habitats are occupied by a small number of uniquely adapted bird species.

Cornell University

Encrypted backups are only accessible by a small number of OCF staff.

University of California, Berkeley

But, in such interactions, decisions are made by a small number of people, predominantly male.

University of California, Berkeley

Further, the bulk of the costs are driven up by a small number of recipients.

The New York Times

That seems to be why Richmond is dominated by a small number of group practices.

The New York Times

"This internet is dominated by a small number of players that restrict customers' choice," said Alierta.

The Guardian - Tech

The event is supported financially by a small number of organisations including the Croydon Buddhist Centre.

The Guardian

Here the science is owned - literally and metaphorically - by a small number of very large companies.

The Guardian

It's not science, nothing is proved by a small number of random stunts.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Swedish banking system is dominated by a small number of major commercial banks.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by a small number", ensure the context clearly indicates what the small number refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, specify "a small number of participants" or "a small number of errors".

Common error

Avoid using "by a small number" when the actual number is negligible or insignificant. Instead, consider alternative phrases like "negligibly" or "insignificantly" if the quantity truly has minimal effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a small number" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate the extent or degree of an action or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by a small number" serves as a versatile adverbial phrase used to quantify changes, differences, or extents in a restricted manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and is appropriate for use across diverse contexts, particularly in academic, news and media, and scientific domains. While versatile, ensure its impact isn't overstated and clarity is maintained regarding the reference. Alternatives like "by a handful" or "by a limited quantity" may offer nuanced expressions depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by a handful

Implies a very small and easily managed quantity, more informal than the original phrase.

by a limited quantity

Focuses on the restriction in amount, more formal and emphasizing the finite nature.

by a scarce few

Highlights the rarity or infrequency, suggesting something is not readily available.

by a select few

Emphasizes exclusivity or special selection, implying a deliberate choice.

by a minority

Indicates a smaller group within a larger population, focusing on the proportion.

among a few

Highlights that the number is considered as a part of a larger group.

among a restricted number

Adds emphasis on number being controlled and not allowed to grow freely.

by a trickle

Highlights the very slow and gradual nature of the quantity or extent.

in a small amount

Emphasizes the reduced quantity of something, typically used for uncountable nouns.

in a small measure

Focuses on the degree or extent being limited, often used for abstract concepts.

FAQs

How can I use "by a small number" in a sentence?

You can use "by a small number" to indicate a limited quantity or amount. For example, "The project was delayed "by a small number" of unforeseen issues" or "Attendance was affected "by a small number" of cancellations".

What are some alternatives to "by a small number"?

Some alternatives include "by a handful", "by a limited quantity", or "by a scarce few". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "by a small number" or "by few"?

"By a small number" is generally more precise and formal. "By few" is acceptable but less common and can sound slightly less polished. Using "by a small number" helps avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "by a small number" and "by a significant number"?

"By a small number" indicates a limited quantity or amount, while "by a significant number" implies a notable or substantial quantity. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the limited or considerable nature of the quantity.