on a limited scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a limited scale" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something is done on a small or restricted scale. For example: "The government's plan to reopen the economy has been implemented on a limited scale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's also offering its service (excluding about $500 for the device itself) for $40 a month on a limited scale through ISPs such as GoAmerica and EarthLink.

Forbes

The bus service began on a limited scale yesterday morning.

The New York Times

So does New York, although on a limited scale for now.

The New York Times

Such databases already exist on a limited scale, covering guns seized by the police.

The New York Times

So far, strategies like this appear to have worked, at least on a limited scale.

The New Yorker

On a limited scale, a layered approach to data modeling has been successfully tried in practice.

Stanford University

Its regional cap-and-trade program is set to begin on a limited scale in 2012.

The New York Times

In addition, they have been used in automobiles, albeit on a limited scale.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although polygamy was once practiced on a limited scale, monogamy is now predominant.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such activities have already been offered on a limited scale to donors, a spokeswoman said.

The New York Times

Such destructive testing is expensive and is, therefore, performed on a limited scale.

Construction and Building Materials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a limited scale" to clearly indicate that an activity, project, or implementation is not comprehensive or widespread. It's useful when specifying the scope of an action.

Common error

Avoid using "on a limited scale" when the activity is actually widespread or comprehensive. Ensure the qualifier accurately reflects the true extent of the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a limited scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or scope of an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, providing context about the degree to which something is implemented or performed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a limited scale" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that indicates an action is being performed in a restricted or small manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and versatile, suitable for various contexts ranging from news reports to scientific papers. Its primary function is to specify the scope of an action, helping to manage expectations and avoid overstatements. When writing, remember that "on a limited scale" should accurately reflect the true extent of the activity to avoid misleading readers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a small extent

Focuses on the degree or amount of something.

in a restricted manner

Emphasizes the limitations or constraints involved.

within certain boundaries

Highlights the presence of defined limits or borders.

on a reduced level

Focuses on decreasing the intensity or scope.

in a controlled fashion

Emphasizes the deliberate and managed nature of the limitation.

on a pilot basis

Suggests a trial or experimental phase with limited commitment.

on a trial run

Implies a test or preliminary implementation.

in an embryonic stage

Indicates that something is in its initial phase of development.

in its infancy

Implies that something is very new and has not fully developed.

to a marginal degree

Highlights that the effect or extent is small and possibly insignificant.

FAQs

How can I use "on a limited scale" in a sentence?

Use "on a limited scale" to indicate that something is happening in a restricted or small way. For instance, "The company is testing the new feature "on a limited scale" before a full rollout".

What are some alternatives to "on a limited scale"?

You can use phrases like "to a small extent", "in a restricted manner", or "on a pilot basis" as alternatives depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "on a limited scale" in formal writing?

Yes, "on a limited scale" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to describe a restricted implementation or activity.

What does "on a limited scale" imply about the future?

"On a limited scale" often implies that there are plans or possibilities for expansion or broader implementation in the future. It suggests the current state is not the final state.