on a very small scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a very small scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is limited in size, scope, or impact, often in comparison to larger or more significant instances. Example: "The experiment was conducted on a very small scale, using only a few samples to test the hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On a very small scale.

The New York Times - Food

That, however, was on a very small scale in the lab.

Yale University

Nanobiology Institute Faculty at this institute study synthetic biology on a very small scale.

Yale University

We're only making mainly jams and chutneys on a very small scale".

The Guardian

On a very small scale, Mr. Clinton is re-creating an informal cabinet.

The New York Times

Instead, he is a wine man on a very small scale.

The New York Times - Food

Glory looks best from a very great distance, or on a very small scale.

The New Yorker

However, the project only exists on a very small scale and is active only in Berlin.

The Guardian

Subsequently a branch was opened in Rangoon on a very small scale, and the tea sold speedily gained popular favour.

Cornell University

It could even be used in modern labs to carry out experiments on a very small scale.

Stanford University

Our method, even though successful on a very small scale, wasn't scalable and would be difficult to make sustainable.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing pilot projects or initial phases, use "on a very small scale" to emphasize the limited scope and experimental nature of the undertaking.

Common error

Avoid using "on a very small scale" when the project or activity is, in fact, quite substantial. Ensure the description accurately reflects the true size and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a very small scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or scope of an action or situation. It describes something happening in a limited manner, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

31%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a very small scale" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe something limited in size, scope, or impact. According to Ludwig, it functions to downplay the significance of an action or situation. While versatile, it's most frequently found in News & Media and Academic contexts. To emphasize the experimental nature, use it to describe a pilot project. Alternatives include "on a limited scale" or "to a minor extent". Ensure you accurately represent the size of what you are describing and it is recommended to not say "in a very small scale".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a limited scale

Emphasizes the restriction in scope or extent, similar to "on a very small scale" but slightly more formal.

on a miniature scale

Highlights the reduced size or proportion, implying a scaled-down version of something.

in a limited capacity

Focuses on the restricted ability or means to perform something, akin to a small-scale operation.

to a minor extent

Indicates that something is happening only slightly or insignificantly.

in a microcosm

Suggests that something is a small representation of a larger whole.

on a reduced level

Focuses on the diminished intensity or degree of something.

on a modest scale

Highlights the humble or unassuming nature of the operation.

in a nutshell

Implies brevity and conciseness, indicating a simplified or condensed version.

in a trial run

Suggests an experimental or preliminary phase, implying a small-scale test before full implementation.

in embryonic form

Indicates that something is in its initial stages of development, implying a small and undeveloped state.

FAQs

How can I use "on a very small scale" in a sentence?

You can use "on a very small scale" to describe something that is limited in size, scope, or impact. For instance, "The experiment was conducted "on a very small scale", using only a few samples to test the hypothesis".

What can I say instead of "on a very small scale"?

Alternatives include "on a limited scale", "to a minor extent", or "in a limited capacity depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "in a very small scale"?

No, the correct phrasing is "on a very small scale". The preposition "on" is required for the phrase to be grammatically correct.

What is the difference between "on a small scale" and "on a very small scale"?

While both phrases indicate something is limited in size or scope, ""on a very small scale"" emphasizes an even greater degree of reduction or limitation compared to "on a small scale".