little quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "little quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small amount of something, often in contexts related to measurements, resources, or supplies. Example: "The recipe calls for a little quantity of salt to enhance the flavor of the dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

4. Weighing: the bead is weighed to determine the total of gold and silver (the platinum metals are present in too little quantity to affect the measurement).

Encyclopedia Britannica

instead of 420,988l. and in the midst of these advantages, the producer receiving actually a higher price than he did for the little quantity in 1824 all are benefited: no one is injured.But stay: this is only half the benefit.

The Economist

"Gray filled area": Area of ash fall of little quantity.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

However, a little quantity of protein was produced by cells that were not exposed to Hg2+.

AMB Express

Little quantity of hydrocarbon sesquiterpene (0.2%) and oxygenated sesquiterpene (0.8%) was also detected.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Little quantity of vermiculite was observed in just one sample area (BD_D).

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Mr. Guesquière said the men's movement was limited, and that they ate "typical 'afghan mountain' food, in very little quantities, and always the same".

The New York Times

It is an inhibitor; it is mostly present in the mulberry leaves and also present by brewing little quantities from the (herbal tea) of the mulberry leaves.

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

The obtained samples comprised a thickness between 100 and 600 nm and a low internal stress when little quantities of metal were incorporated.

Surface and Coatings Technology

It was demonstrated that oxygen impurities' incorporation even in little quantities into this fuel alters its physical properties (thermal conductivity,…); however for dinitrides and sesquinitrides, only some efforts have been devoted to these types of fuel.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

The silver dollar continued to circulate little; quantities were sent west beginning in 1854 to serve as "small change" in California.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider replacing "little quantity" with more common alternatives like "small amount" or "limited quantity". This can enhance readability without sacrificing precision.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "little quantity" may sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler expressions such as "not much" or "a bit" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "little quantity" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, indicating a small or limited amount of something. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various domains, from scientific measurements to culinary descriptions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "little quantity" is a grammatically correct way to describe a small amount of something. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. While acceptable, simpler alternatives like "small amount" may be preferred for greater clarity and a less formal tone. While Ludwig confirms the grammatical correctness, consider the context and audience when choosing between "little quantity" and its more common synonyms to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Small amount

Replaces "quantity" with the more common term "amount" for a simpler expression.

Minimal amount

Emphasizes the extremely small nature of the quantity.

Slight quantity

Uses "slight" to denote a small and often insignificant quantity.

Scant amount

Implies that the quantity is not only small but also insufficient.

Limited quantity

Focuses on the restricted nature of the available quantity.

Small measure

Replaces "quantity" with "measure", which is suitable when discussing measurable items.

Modest quantity

Suggests the quantity is not excessive or extravagant.

Trace amount

Indicates an extremely small and barely detectable quantity.

Tiny portion

Suitable when describing a small serving or part of something.

Reduced amount

Highlights that the quantity has been decreased or lessened.

FAQs

How can I use "little quantity" in a sentence?

You can use "little quantity" to describe a small amount of something, for example: "The recipe calls for a "little quantity" of salt."

What can I say instead of "little quantity"?

Alternatives include "small amount", "minimal amount", or "slight quantity", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "small amount" or "little quantity"?

"Small amount" is generally more common and widely understood. "Little quantity" is grammatically correct but can sound more formal or less natural in everyday contexts.

Which situations benefit most from using "little quantity"?

The phrase "little quantity" can be used to describe contexts where precision is important, such as in scientific or technical writing, where a more formal tone is appropriate.