small number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to discuss a group of people or objects that is very limited in size. For example: "A small number of people attended the meeting, but they still managed to accomplish a lot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A very small number of North Dakota voters.

The New York Times

A small number of families trickled away.

The New York Times

There is a small number of Asian-American ballerinas, and a small number of black ones.

The New Yorker

A small number of salons have a small number of stylists renting a chair from them.

The Guardian

Most, however, are awarded to a small number of executives.

The New York Times

Ford has even licensed a small number of Toyota patents.

The New York Times

Police have seized a small number of the tablets.

The Guardian - Music

A small number of actors are expected to participate.

The New York Times - Arts

There was a relatively small number of western climbers injured".

The Guardian

It has a small number of modern skeletons as well.

The New Yorker

A small number of influential gatekeepers do wield significant power.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To improve your writing, consider using alternatives such as "few", "a handful", or "a limited number" for variety and to avoid repetition. These alternatives are often more concise.

Common error

Avoid using "small number of" with singular nouns. It should always be followed by a plural noun or a non-countable noun to maintain grammatical correctness. For example, it's correct to say "small number of books" but incorrect to say "small number of book".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small number of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically a quantifier, which modifies a noun to indicate a limited quantity. It implies that the quantity being referred to is less than what might be expected or desired. Ludwig AI confirms this is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small number of" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a limited quantity, as highlighted by Ludwig AI. It functions as a determiner phrase and is suitable for a range of contexts, from formal to informal, with the highest frequency in news and media. When using this phrase, remember to pair it with plural nouns and ensure the context makes it clear what the quantity is small in relation to. Consider using alternatives like "few" or "limited number of" for variety. With its wide acceptance and clear meaning, "small number of" is a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small amount of

A more straightforward synonym, simply denoting a reduced quantity.

limited quantity of

Emphasizes the restriction in the amount available.

restricted amount of

Focuses on the controlled or limited nature of the quantity.

few instances of

Highlights the infrequency of occurrence.

modest quantity of

Implies a moderate or humble amount.

handful of

Suggests a small, easily manageable quantity.

scarce amount of

Indicates that the quantity is not readily available.

negligible quantity of

Highlights the insignificance of the amount.

tiny fraction of

Emphasizes that the amount is a very small part of a larger whole.

paucity of

Highlights a general lack or scarcity.

FAQs

How can I use "small number of" in a sentence?

You can use "small number of" to describe a limited quantity of something. For example, "A "small number of" students attended the lecture", or "Only a "small number of" tickets are available".

What are some alternatives to "small number of"?

Some alternatives include "few", "a handful of", "limited number of", or "restricted amount of", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "small number" or "small amount"?

"Small number" is generally used with countable nouns (e.g., people, books), while "small amount" is used with uncountable nouns (e.g., water, money). Using them correctly depends on what you are quantifying.

What's the difference between "small number of" and "large number of"?

"Small number of" indicates a limited quantity or count, whereas "large number of" indicates a substantial quantity or count. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize scarcity or abundance.