small collection

USAGE SUMMARY

"small collection" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used when describing a group of things that are gathered or kept together in a limited or modest amount. For example: - "I have a small collection of vintage postcards." - "The museum displayed a small collection of ancient artifacts." - "Jane has a small collection of books on art history." - "We started a small collection of stamps from different countries." - "My grandmother has a small collection of antique teapots."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Angela Murray Gibson Collection (small collection #679).

Columbia University

I have a small collection of Angela material.

The Guardian - Books

It's a small collection, but there's no riffraff".

The New York Times

He had a small collection of Impressionist art.

The New Yorker

Tip: Target recently commissioned Burkin to create a small collection.

The New York Times

Magnus began consulting his father's small collection of chess books.

The New Yorker

On a small collection of birds from San Sebastian, Colombia.

Harvard University

Finally, this series contains a small collection of Ginsberg obituaries.

Columbia University

A small collection of memorabilia documenting the life of Atchley.

Columbia University

There's a thriving artistic community and a small collection of museums and galleries.

The Guardian - Travel

Above my desk there's a small collection of late-18th- and 19th- century chess sets.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small collection" when you want to emphasize the limited size or scope of something, rather than its importance or completeness.

Common error

Avoid using "small collection" when the group of items is actually quite significant or representative. Opt for a more descriptive term if the collection's value outweighs its size.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small collection" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "small" modifies the noun "collection". Ludwig shows it is used to describe a limited quantity of items or objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

35%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small collection" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a limited number of items. Ludwig confirms its frequent use in News & Media and Academia. While versatile, be mindful not to overstate the significance when using it. Alternatives like "limited assortment" or "modest array" can add nuance. Overall, "small collection" is a reliable and informative phrase for everyday use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited assortment

Emphasizes the restricted variety within the collection.

modest array

Highlights the humble or unpretentious nature of the collection.

narrow selection

Focuses on the limited choice available.

compact compilation

Implies that the collection is neatly and efficiently gathered in a small space.

petite grouping

Underscores the small size and intimacy of the collection.

select few

Highlights the choiceness and exclusivity of the items in the collection.

handful of items

Indicates a very small, easily manageable quantity.

limited quantity

Stresses the restricted amount of the items.

minor accumulation

Emphasizes the gradual and unexceptional way the collection was formed.

small batch

Commonly used when referring to a small quantity of items produced or prepared at the same time.

FAQs

How can I use "small collection" in a sentence?

You can use "small collection" to describe a limited number of items, such as "I have a small collection of vintage stamps" or "The gallery displayed a small collection of local artists' works".

What are some alternatives to saying "small collection"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "limited assortment", "modest array", or "narrow selection".

Is it always appropriate to describe something as a "small collection"?

No, it's not always appropriate. If the collection is particularly valuable or representative, even though small, a different descriptor might be more accurate. Consider the significance of the collection when choosing your words.

What's the difference between "small collection" and "large collection"?

"Small collection" refers to a limited number of items, while "large collection" implies a substantial quantity. The choice depends on the actual size of the group you're describing.