little specimen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "little specimen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small example or representation of something, often in a scientific or observational context. Example: "The researcher examined the little specimen under the microscope to gather more data about its characteristics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Most of these seem to represent Prionosuchus, but one little specimen that was found by Domingas da Conceiçáo, another of Juan's undergraduates, seems to represent a new kind of amphibian.

The New York Times

The little specimen, dubbed "Joe," was so young that its crest was a mere bump on its head.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

These little specimens seem to spring to life again when you discover them tucked in the pages of a notebook or novel.

The New York Times

The island produces them in staggering quantities, and they are fatter, firmer and far more flavorful than those flaccid little specimens packed in jars everywhere else.

The New York Times - Food

Tobias was also known for his part in exposing the Piltdown Man hoax, his collaborations with Louis and Mary Leakey on "Dear Boy" (Olduvai Hominid 5 [OH5]) and other projects, and his excavation of the "Little Foot" specimen in the Sterkfontein caves during the 1960s.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Too little of the specimen was uncontaminated to re-date the fragments directly, so Higham's team scoured the archives at Torquay museum for animal bones excavated above and below the spot where the jawbone was found.

The Guardian

Although these cultures were offered at no cost to the physician or patient, little increase in specimen submissions was observed during the 1998-99 influenza season when compared to prior years.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Here they are briny little Fanny Bay specimens, doused in a vinegary dressing and topped with cubes of bacon.

The New Yorker

Precipitation had little effect on specimens compressed in the c-axis.

Acta Materialia

It is generally agreed that the species is native to Europe; Watling has demonstrated that there exists little difference between specimens collected from Spain and Scotland, at both the morphological and genetic level.

Wikipedia

Of the contemporary sources, the history of Akropolites is the most negative towards the Mouzalon brothers, whom he calls "loathsome little men, worthless specimens of humanity" and "false of tongue, nimble of foot, peerless at beating the floor in dance".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "little specimen", be specific about what makes it noteworthy. Is it its size, its rarity, or its representational value? Providing context will enhance the reader's understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "little specimen" as a generic descriptor. Instead, specify the type of specimen (e.g., fossil, plant, insect) and its unique characteristics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "little specimen" functions as a noun phrase where "little" modifies the noun "specimen". It is used to describe a small or undersized example of something, often in a scientific or observational context. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "little specimen" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression, primarily used in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts to describe a small sample. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's best employed when you want to emphasize the diminutive size and representative nature of the item. Related phrases include "small sample" and "tiny example". When using "little specimen", provide specific details about the specimen's characteristics to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small sample

Focuses on the size and representational aspect of the specimen.

tiny example

Emphasizes the diminutive size and illustrative nature.

miniature version

Highlights the scaled-down aspect of the specimen.

petite model

Suggests a smaller, often carefully crafted, representation.

small-scale replica

Indicates a reduced, but accurate, copy.

compact sample

Focuses on the small and space-saving nature of the sample.

undersized exhibit

Highlights the smaller size in an exhibition context.

diminutive instance

Emphasizes the reduced size and specific occurrence.

microscopic piece

Suggests an extremely small fragment requiring magnification.

reduced representation

Focuses on the smaller and simplified nature of the specimen.

FAQs

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

You can use "little specimen" to describe a small sample or example, particularly in scientific or observational contexts. For instance: "The researcher examined the little specimen under the microscope."

What are some alternatives to "little specimen"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "small sample", "tiny example", or "miniature version".

When is it appropriate to use the term "little specimen"?

The term is appropriate when you want to emphasize both the small size and the representative nature of the sample being discussed, typically in scientific or analytical settings.

Is there a difference between "little specimen" and "small sample"?

While similar, "little specimen" often implies a more formal or scientific context, whereas "small sample" can be used more broadly. A specimen is typically something collected for study.