small contribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small contribution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an amount of money, effort, or time that is less than the whole, or a small part of something. For example: "I made a small contribution to the charity this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is our family's small contribution.

The New York Times

It is no small contribution.

The New York Times

His is not a small contribution.

The Guardian - Books

'Stealth' taxes have made a small contribution.

The Guardian - Business

Call it my small contribution to civilization".

The New York Times - Arts

Line item vetoes made a small contribution.

The New York Times

So I am delighted to make this small contribution".

The New York Times

For a small contribution, much other useful information is available.

The New York Times - Travel

Others insist that technology has made only a small contribution.

The New York Times

"It is my small contribution to musical history".

The New Yorker

It's your small contribution, but it can be really meaningful".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small contribution" to downplay your own efforts to show humbleness, especially when part of a team.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the effect of a "small contribution". Overstating its importance can undermine credibility and appear insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small contribution" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" is an adjective modifying the noun "contribution". It typically identifies a minor or limited input. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small contribution" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a minor or limited input, whether it's in terms of effort, money, or resources. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English. While often used to express humility or to set realistic expectations, it's important to be genuine and avoid exaggerating the impact of such contributions. As illustrated by Ludwig's examples, the phrase appears frequently in news and media, academia, and formal business contexts, making it a versatile expression for various communication styles. Alternatives include "modest input", "minor donation", and "limited participation", each with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modest input

Replaces "contribution" with "input" and "small" with "modest", emphasizing the limited nature of the contribution.

slight assistance

Emphasizes the help provided, portraying it as minimal.

humble share

Indicates a modest portion or part contributed, often with a sense of humility.

minor donation

Specifically refers to a financial contribution of a small amount.

minimal impact

Shifts the focus to the limited effect or consequence of the contribution.

tiny offering

Highlights the small size or amount of what is being contributed.

limited participation

Highlights the act of contributing in terms of involvement rather than a tangible offering.

token gesture

Implies the contribution is symbolic and may not have a significant effect.

inconsequential part

Suggests the contribution is not important or significant.

negligible role

Focuses on the limited part played or influence exerted.

FAQs

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

You can use "small contribution" to describe a minor part of something, like: "Even a "small contribution" can make a difference in achieving our goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "small contribution"?

Alternatives include "modest input", "minor donation", or "limited participation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "small contribution" or "minor contribution"?

Both "small contribution" and "minor contribution" are acceptable. The choice depends on personal preference, as they convey similar meanings.

What does it mean when someone describes their effort as a "small contribution"?

It typically indicates that the person is being humble about their efforts or acknowledging that their input is just one part of a larger effort.