on a low scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a low scale" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used to describe something that is done in a limited or minor way, but it is better to use more standard expressions for clarity. Example: "The project was implemented on a low scale, affecting only a small number of participants."

BMC Health Services Research

The New York Times

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Consequently, in the long run neither the physicians nor the patients will be satisfied having to communicate on such a low scale.

BMC Health Services Research

"I figure we've got 10 to 15 years to get ourselves in position to compete on a low-scale commodity business, or we need to move forward on something that is more value-added," Mr. Burrack said in a recent phone interview.

The New York Times

After the First Sudanese Civil War ended in 1972, there were plans to revive sugar production at Mongalla, and although Mongalla Sugar Processing Factory operated on a low-scale in the 1970s, it ceased production when civil war broke out again in 1983.A clothing mill also operated in the 1970s but was deactivated due to the unrest in the early 1980s.

Wikipedia

So it's not like, 'My God, I can't believe the depravity!' First of all, in terms of these types of scandals, the depravity was on a very low scale".

The New York Times - Magazine

The reduced presence of neurogenesis-associated features in the aged human hippocampus suggests that, as in rodents, neurogenesis is likely to occur on a very low scale, at least if compared to younger age.

Plosone

Skin prick test: This test checks for symptoms on a safe low scale.

WikiHow

It is conceivable that in order to maintain working memory skills, an on-going, low-scale training is needed for this group of readers.

Plosone

The paradox of independent filmmaking is that it often replicates, on a low budget and a small scale, the commercial mainstream's production process and approach to acting.

The New Yorker

Responses in the Tables 2 and 3 were designed to be reported on a Likert scale ("very low", "low", "normal", "high", "very high").

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

By making a cake for friends, West insists, "one is striking a low note on a scale that is struck higher up by Beethoven and Mozart".

The Guardian - Books

The risk status in effect, known as Bravo, is the second lowest on an ascending scale; the lowest level is Alpha, and the scale ascends through Bravo, Charlie and Delta.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the scope of a project or activity, use "on a small scale" or "on a limited scale" as clearer and more common alternatives to "on a low scale".

Common error

Avoid using "on a low scale" if you can specify the exact degree or size. For example, instead of saying "the impact was on a low scale", quantify the impact if possible to provide more clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a low scale" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to describe the extent or degree to which an action or phenomenon occurs. As Ludwig AI indicates, while acceptable, it's not the most common choice.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a low scale" is a prepositional phrase used to describe actions or processes that occur to a limited extent. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI indicates that it is less common and less precise than alternatives such as "on a small scale" or "to a minor extent". Analysis of various sources suggests its presence in scientific and news contexts. For clarity and impact, it's advisable to consider alternative phrasing to convey the intended meaning effectively. Ludwig also provides options for rephrasing to improve clarity and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a small scale

Indicates a limited scope or extent of an activity or operation, similar to "on a low scale".

on a limited scale

Similar to "on a low scale" but emphasizes the restriction or limitation of the activity.

to a minor extent

Focuses on the degree to which something is happening, implying a small impact.

to a lesser degree

Highlights the reduced intensity or level compared to something else.

on a reduced level

Emphasizes a decrease in the amount or intensity, mirroring "on a low scale".

in a limited capacity

Focuses on the restricted ability or potential for something to occur.

on a modest scale

Similar to "on a low scale" but implies a humble or unassuming approach.

on a miniature scale

Highlights the very small size or scope of the activity.

to a minimal degree

Indicates that the action or effect is happening at the smallest possible level.

on a basic level

Suggests that something is happening in its simplest or most fundamental form.

FAQs

What does "on a low scale" mean?

The phrase "on a low scale" generally means something is happening or being done to a limited extent, scope, or degree. It indicates that the activity is not extensive or significant.

What can I say instead of "on a low scale"?

You can use alternatives like "on a small scale", "on a limited scale", or "to a minor extent" depending on the specific context.

Is "on a low scale" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, "on a low scale" is less common than alternatives like "on a small scale". Using the more common phrases will improve clarity.

How do I use "on a low scale" in a sentence?

You can use "on a low scale" to describe something that is done in a limited way. For example: "The initial testing was conducted on a low scale to assess feasibility."