low enrollment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low enrollment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the number of participants or students in a program, course, or institution is below expectations or desired levels. Example: "The university is facing challenges due to low enrollment in its new online courses this semester."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Low enrollment in physics is a widespread problem.

The New York Times

Evidence shows that public-benefit programs requiring applications show pitifully low enrollment rates.

The New York Times

Mr. Mazzullo blamed the school's low enrollment on "inadequate and outdated programs".

The New York Times

And she blames the Stamford school system, in part, for Wright's low enrollment.

The New York Times

Both schools have long suffered from low enrollment and sizable budget deficits.

The New York Times

I chose Northern Edge Algonquin at the last minute after another outfitter canceled due to low enrollment.

The New York Times - Travel

Belt-tightening at the state level has made the ramifications of low enrollment more noticeable locally.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

When he arrived in 1991, it faced a $38 million deficit and a record-low enrollment.

The New York Times

The high-ideals, low-enrollment class meets in a drafty campus building that otherwise houses old mops.

The New Yorker

He explained that permanent faculty would teacher fewer low-enrollment courses and shift to the larger introductory sources.

The New York Times

The program seeks innovation and reform in Chicago's public schools by soliciting ideas for opening 100 new schools, including Austin, and closing underperforming and low-enrollment schools.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the reasons behind the "low enrollment". Addressing the root cause can lead to effective solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "low enrollment" when you actually mean low engagement or participation. Enrollment refers to the number of people who have signed up, while engagement refers to how actively involved they are.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low enrollment" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It modifies a noun (e.g., schools, programs) to indicate a condition or state characterized by an insufficient number of participants. Ludwig shows the many contexts in which it can be used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low enrollment" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe situations where participation or registration numbers are insufficient. Ludwig AI's analysis underscores its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business settings. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the context and consider the underlying causes. Addressing those causes may involve marketing improvements, program enhancements, or financial aid offerings. Remember to differentiate between enrollment and engagement for accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

declining participation

Focuses on the act of participation decreasing, rather than the state of enrollment.

reduced attendance

Emphasizes the physical presence or attendance aspect.

decreased registration

Highlights the registration process as the point of reduction.

under-subscription

Indicates that something is not fully subscribed or taken up.

inadequate numbers

General term indicating an insufficient quantity of people.

limited uptake

Focuses on the acceptance or adoption rate being low.

scarce involvement

Highlights the limited degree of engagement or involvement.

thin ranks

A more figurative way of saying that the number of people is low.

meager representation

Emphasizes the lack of proportional representation.

insufficient intake

Focuses on the number of people being admitted or taken in.

FAQs

What are some common causes of "low enrollment" in schools?

Factors contributing to "low enrollment" include demographic shifts, competition from other schools, tuition costs, and program quality.

How does "low enrollment" affect school funding?

Many schools receive funding based on student numbers, so "low enrollment" can lead to budget cuts and resource limitations.

What can schools do to combat "low enrollment"?

Strategies include improving marketing, enhancing academic programs, offering financial aid, and strengthening community relationships.

What are some alternatives to saying "low enrollment"?

You can use alternatives like "declining participation", "reduced attendance", or "decreased registration" depending on the specific context.