paucity of quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "paucity of quantity" is somewhat redundant and not commonly used in written English.
It can be used when discussing a lack of something, particularly in contexts where both scarcity and measurement are relevant, but it may sound awkward. Example: "The study revealed a paucity of quantity in the available data, making it difficult to draw any significant conclusions."

Science

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Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

§ 1434.9 Determination of quantity.

Cornell University

3. Estimation of quantity.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Put in quality running instead of quantity.

WikiHow

Until recently, there were a paucity of reports from pharmaceutical companies on the type and quantity of drugs that were fraudulently compounded or transferred by criminals.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

This was due to several reasons, including giving primary attention to providing the required quantities of water, not to mention the paucity of pollutants during the first half of the twentieth century, a situation completely different from the present time.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Our focus on the quantity of inpatient mental health beds reflects the relative paucity of research regarding this variable compared to the important variables above.

BMC Psychiatry

However, the paucity of fuel, water and soap, together with a more general decline in both the quantity and quality of food available, meant that the 1944 45 siege affected all but the most privileged islanders.

BMC Public Health

However, comparison across studies is limited by differences in profiling platform, quantity of miRNA obtainable, methodology, in some cases sample number and a paucity of clinicopathologic data.

BMC Cancer

The paucity of both cell types has hampered molecular and cell biological studies, which often require large quantities of purified cells.

Stanford University

However, due to the general paucity of NKT cells in blood a transfer of maternal NKT cells to the fetus in the quantities measured here seems unlikely.

Plosone

So does the paucity of ideas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a limited amount, consider using more common phrases like "lack of quantity" or "small quantity" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "paucity of quantity" in informal contexts. Opt for simpler language like "not enough" or "too little" for better communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paucity of quantity" functions as a noun phrase, specifically indicating a deficiency or lack of something measurable. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI suggests that it is somewhat redundant and not commonly used.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "paucity of quantity" is a grammatically acceptable but somewhat uncommon way to express a lack of something measurable. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase may be redundant and suggests using simpler alternatives such as "lack of quantity" or "scarcity of amount". While technically correct, its infrequent usage and potential for sounding awkward make it less preferable in general writing. Consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase, as simpler alternatives often provide greater clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of quantity

Replaces "paucity" with the more common "lack", simplifying the phrase.

scarcity of amount

Substitutes "paucity" with "scarcity" and "quantity" with "amount", keeping a formal tone.

insufficiency of volume

Replaces "paucity" with "insufficiency" and "quantity" with "volume", adding a more technical feel.

meager quantity

Uses the adjective "meager" to describe the quantity, indicating it is small or insufficient.

limited amount

Emphasizes the restriction in amount, using a straightforward construction.

inadequate quantity

Highlights that the quantity is not sufficient for a particular purpose.

shortage of quantity

Indicates a deficit or deficiency in the amount available.

deficiency in volume

Similar to insufficiency, but emphasizes a lack or absence of the required amount.

small quantity

Simplest way to express that the amount is not large.

reduced quantity

Suggests that the quantity has been decreased or diminished.

FAQs

What does "paucity of quantity" mean?

The phrase "paucity of quantity" refers to a situation where there is very little or not enough of something measurable. It indicates a scarcity or deficiency in the amount of something.

Is it better to say "lack of quantity" or "paucity of quantity"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "lack of quantity" is more commonly used and generally clearer. "Paucity" can sound overly formal or pretentious in some contexts.

How can I use "paucity of quantity" in a sentence?

You might use "paucity of quantity" when discussing data or resources. For instance, "The study was hampered by a paucity of quantity in the available data."

What are some alternatives to "paucity of quantity"?

Alternatives include "scarcity of amount", "small quantity", or "insufficient amount". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.