limited distribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limited distribution" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the restricted or controlled dissemination of information, products, or services to a specific group or location. For example, a company may have a limited distribution policy where they only sell their products to certain retailers or a government agency may have limited distribution of classified documents. Example sentence: The new product launch had limited distribution, with only a few select stores carrying it initially.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The computers were distributed mostly to employees in the United States and the Philippines, with limited distribution to workers in Britain and Venezuela, he said.

The New York Times

Dittman's publication was Wireless magazine, a company that had no website and limited distribution.

The Guardian - Film

Federal regulators have since allowed CryoLife to resume limited distribution of human tissue for transplants.

The New York Times

Are there other countries where it exercises that kind of limited distribution?

The New Yorker

"This was a highly compartmented program with very limited distribution," he said.

The New York Times

"For us, a record of a conversation with the president -- known as a 'memcon' -- gets very, very limited distribution".

The New York Times

Evidence of a fragmented intelligence community can be found in the limited distribution of the D.C.I.'s declaration.

The New York Times

Rivette's film has had very limited distribution in the United States, but Facets has just brought it out on videotape.

The New Yorker

In extremely sensitive cases, post should send a Roger Channel telegram to INR/CCS, which will ensure appropriate, limited distribution.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Online fans aren't limited to screaming in a crowd or even sharing opinions in a limited-distribution fanzine or small club.

The New York Times

(Some of Cakebread's limited-distribution wines -- like the 1999 Three Sisters Cabernet Sauvignon, at $90 -- are sold at Winetasting.com).

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific contexts, "limited distribution" accurately describes species or elements that are not widespread. This is crucial for specifying the range of a subject, like a plant or chemical.

Common error

Avoid using "limited distribution" when you actually mean the distribution is ineffective or flawed. "Limited distribution" implies a deliberate restriction, while poor distribution suggests a problem with the process itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited distribution" primarily functions as a descriptor, often modifying a noun to indicate a constraint on how widely something is spread or available. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to the restricted dissemination of items, products, or information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "limited distribution" correctly describes the state of being restricted in availability or reach, as Ludwig AI confirms. Predominantly observed in news, science, and encyclopedic contents, its neutral register and descriptive function make it suitable for various contexts, from academic analyses to casual discussions. Related terms like "restricted availability" and "narrow dissemination" may be used to fine-tune the intended meaning. Avoid confusing it with poor distribution, which implies ineffective dissemination rather than a deliberate restriction. Remember, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finite distribution

Synonymous but emphasizes the finality of the limit in distribution.

restricted availability

Focuses on the availability aspect rather than the act of distributing.

narrow dissemination

Emphasizes the restricted spread of information or products.

controlled release

Implies a deliberate and managed process of making something available.

selective circulation

Highlights the careful selection of recipients or locations for distribution.

small-scale distribution

Focuses on the size or scope of the distribution effort.

exclusive distribution

Implies that only certain entities are authorized to distribute.

reduced distribution

Highlights the decrease in distribution compared to a previous state.

partial distribution

Indicates that only a portion of the intended recipients or locations are covered.

localized distribution

Focuses on the geographical restriction of the distribution.

FAQs

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

You might say, "Due to budget constraints, the film had a "limited distribution", primarily showing in art house cinemas".

What's a good alternative to "limited distribution"?

Consider using phrases like "restricted availability", "narrow dissemination", or "selective circulation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "limited distribution" formal or informal?

"Limited distribution" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it appears more frequently in news and business writing. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary.

What does "limited distribution" imply about a product or service?

It generally implies that the product or service is not widely accessible, possibly due to strategic decisions, resource constraints, or the nature of the offering.