in small amounts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in small amounts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing quantities, particularly when referring to substances, ingredients, or resources that should be used sparingly. Example: "When adding salt to the dish, make sure to include it in small amounts to avoid overpowering the flavor."

✓ Grammatically correct

General usage

Cooking

Health

Finance

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Used in small amounts, chromium hardens steel.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Add flour as needed, in small amounts.

The New York Times - Food

It is best served in small amounts.

The New York Times - Food

It can be frozen in small amounts.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Any aid would be given in small amounts, he stressed.

The Guardian

In small amounts, selenium is necessary for biological function.

Yale University

The methylamines occur in small amounts in some plants.

Britannica

Apple stores have been resupplied daily, but in small amounts.

The New York Times - Tech

Ethylene is formed in small amounts as a plant hormone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Syrup, in small amounts, can be prepared from its sap.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unsurprisingly, specific capacitance decreases after doping Ga in small amounts.

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions involving ingredients or potentially harmful substances, use "in small amounts" to emphasize caution and prevent overuse.

Common error

Avoid using "in small amounts" when precision is required. For example, in scientific contexts, specify exact measurements instead of relying on this general phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in small amounts" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or adjectives to specify the quantity or degree to which an action is performed or a quality is present. Ludwig indicates it is a correct phrase. It often provides context for how something should be used or consumed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in small amounts" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to advocate for moderation and caution across diverse contexts. As verified by Ludwig, it serves as an adverbial phrase, modifying actions or qualities to indicate a limited quantity or degree. Predominantly found in news, wiki, and scientific sources, its neutral register renders it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to employ "in small amounts" when advising caution, but opt for precise measurements when accuracy is paramount. Consider alternatives like "in limited quantities" or "sparingly" to refine your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in limited quantities

Replaces 'amounts' with the more formal 'quantities', emphasizing restriction.

sparingly

A single-word adverb that means 'using or consuming economically'.

in moderation

Indicates avoidance of excess, particularly related to consumption.

in slight measures

Uses 'measures' to denote portions, implying a small quantity.

in trace amounts

Specifically refers to extremely small, almost undetectable quantities.

in minimal doses

Commonly used in medical or scientific contexts to describe small quantities of medication or substances.

in fractional portions

Highlights the division into small parts, suggesting careful allocation.

in reduced quantities

Emphasizes the action of decreasing an initial quantity, implying that the original quantity was larger.

in controlled dosages

Suggests a deliberate and precise regulation of the amount used.

bit by bit

Highlights a slow and gradual process where something is added, given, or revealed gradually.

FAQs

How can I use "in small amounts" in a sentence?

You can use "in small amounts" to indicate that something should be used sparingly or in limited quantities, such as "Add the spice "in small amounts" to avoid overpowering the dish."

What's a good alternative to saying "in small amounts"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in limited quantities", "sparingly", or "in moderation" instead of "in small amounts".

Is it always clear what "in small amounts" means, or should I be more specific?

While "in small amounts" is generally understood, it can be subjective. If precision is important, such as in a scientific experiment or a critical recipe, it's best to use exact measurements rather than relying on the vagueness of ""in small amounts"".

When is it appropriate to use "in small amounts" rather than precise measurements?

Use ""in small amounts"" when a general guideline is sufficient and the exact quantity isn't crucial, such as when giving broad advice or suggesting how to use a seasoning to taste.