limited contribution

USAGE SUMMARY

"limited contribution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone has only contributed a certain amount of something. For example, "The government made a limited contribution to the relief efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Henry disappointed and an already limited contribution dwindled markedly after the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

While middle-income countries should be encouraged to move faster, the poorest countries might start off with a very limited contribution.

The Guardian

And with little prospect of any benefit flowing in the other direction – for Scotland could only make a limited contribution to supporting a big English bank.

The Guardian

In comparison to preventing the loss of natural forests, however, tree planting has the potential to make only a limited contribution to reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

The Guardian

"It's pretty embarrassing," Doleac said of the limited contribution he has made since the Knicks signed him as a free agent in August.

The New York Times - Sports

Nevertheless, the few studies of criminal investigation that have been conducted stress the limited contribution of such scientific methods to the identification of unknown perpetrators.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Click here to buy it for £16 Mount Pleasant The redevelopment of the Royal Mail's sorting office in Islington, north London, was vehemently opposed by local residents for its fortress-like qualities and limited contribution to local housing needs.

The Guardian - Arts

Perhaps the departure of Ferguson did not help, and Van Persie seemed to find it difficult to warm to David Moyes, though his limited contribution last season under Van Gaal – 10 goals in 29 appearances – tells its own story.

The Guardian - Sport

Adsorbed hydrocarbons provided limited contribution to the overall reactivity of the un-pretreated particulate matter.

Catalysis Today

However, PSCs show limited contribution to the extraembryonic placental tissues in vivo.

Cell

He correlates this characteristic with the limited contribution that academic research has given to software engineering evolution.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "limited contribution", clearly specify what the contribution is limited in relation to, to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "limited contribution" when the contribution is actually nonexistent or detrimental. Ensure the contribution, though small, is still present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited contribution" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. It describes the extent or degree to which something adds or provides to a particular outcome, as affirmed by Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limited contribution" is a versatile and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig, to describe an effect, input, or involvement that is not substantial. Appearing most often in scientific and news contexts, its formal register makes it suitable for professional and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the contribution is limited in relation to. Consider alternatives like ""modest contribution"" or ""small contribution"" depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modest contribution

Emphasizes the small size of the contribution.

small contribution

Highlights the minimal nature of the contribution.

restricted input

Focuses on the limited amount provided.

minor role

Indicates a less significant part played.

marginal impact

Suggests a negligible effect.

minimal assistance

Emphasizes the very low level of aid provided.

scant input

Highlights the insufficiency of the contribution.

token effort

Implies a symbolic rather than substantial contribution.

inadequate support

Focuses on the insufficiency of the support given.

negligible effect

Suggests the impact is so small it's practically nonexistent.

FAQs

How can I use "limited contribution" in a sentence?

You can use "limited contribution" to describe a situation where something provides only a small or restricted amount to a larger whole. For example, "The volunteer's effort made a "limited contribution" to the project's success".

What are some alternatives to "limited contribution"?

Alternatives include "modest contribution", "small contribution", or "marginal impact". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "limited contribution" or "small contribution"?

Both phrases are valid, but "limited contribution" often implies a restriction or constraint, while "small contribution" simply denotes size. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended meaning.

What does it mean when something makes a "limited contribution"?

It means that its effect, input, or involvement is not substantial or significant, either due to inherent constraints or external limitations.