smaller difference is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smaller difference is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more items and discussing the magnitude of their differences. Example: "In this experiment, the smaller difference is observed between the control group and the test group."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

An opposite but much smaller difference is seen al E region heights.

Advances in Space Research

(Note that a smaller difference is more difficult to detect and requires a larger sample size; see below for details).

Critical Care

Consistent with this, a smaller difference is observed with pravastatin due to the relatively greater contribution of renal (rather than biliary) clearance.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A smaller difference was observed for BRCA1 LRs, 14.0% versus 11.8%, which was not statistically significant.

Cancer

The detection of smaller differences is irrelevant since it is not clinically significant.

BMC Health Services Research

However, in clinical practice this small difference is not considered as "different".

Annals of Intensive Care

The small difference is due to the different primary rack we randomly picked.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

The small difference is possibly due to their different molecular weights.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

For Cohen, the "small difference" is that "the biased journalist occasionally tells the truth".

The Guardian

Only a small difference is seen.

Chemistry Central Journal

Small difference is found between bottom and top heating modes.

International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing data sets, use "smaller difference is" to accurately describe a reduction in the disparity between values, ensuring clarity and precision in your analysis.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "smaller difference is" automatically unimportant. Even small differences can be statistically significant if the sample size is large enough, indicating a real effect that should be considered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smaller difference is" functions primarily as a comparative descriptor. It indicates a reduced level of dissimilarity between two or more entities. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Similar examples from Ludwig showcase its role in highlighting distinctions, often within scientific or analytical contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smaller difference is" serves as a comparative term, indicating a reduced level of dissimilarity, it's deemed grammatically correct and usable, though rare in occurrence. The phrase finds primary use in scientific and news contexts, where precise comparisons are crucial. Ludwig notes its function in highlighting differences and its suitability for analytical contexts. While a "smaller difference is" might seem insignificant, it's important to remember that even "slight distinctions" can hold importance based on context and statistical significance. The ability to accurately articulate such comparisons enhances clarity in both written and spoken communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lesser disparity exists

Replaces 'difference' with 'disparity' and uses 'exists' for a more formal tone.

reduced gap is present

Substitutes 'difference' with 'gap' and employs 'is present' for emphasis.

minimal variation is seen

Replaces 'difference' with 'variation' to suggest slight change.

slight distinction is observed

Uses 'distinction' instead of 'difference', implying a more subtle contrast.

a narrower margin is apparent

Employs 'margin' to denote the degree of difference, highlighting the reduction.

a tinier contrast is noticeable

Replaces 'smaller' with 'tinier' and 'difference' with 'contrast' for a more informal feel.

the divergence is less

Using 'divergence' emphasizes the act of moving apart, now to a reduced extent.

there's a diminutive discrepancy

Substitutes 'difference' with 'discrepancy', stressing a minor inconsistency.

the differential is marginal

Utilizes 'differential' to indicate a mathematical difference, now only to a small degree.

the inequity is reduced

Replaces 'difference' with 'inequity' to suggest a reduction in unfairness or imbalance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "smaller difference is" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases like "a reduced disparity exists" or "a minimal variation is observed". These options offer a more sophisticated tone suitable for academic or professional writing.

When is it appropriate to use "smaller difference is" in scientific writing?

Use "smaller difference is" when comparing experimental results, statistical data, or measurements where the magnitude of difference is a key factor in your analysis. Ensure that you provide specific values to quantify the difference.

What are some common contexts where a "smaller difference is" clinically significant?

In medical research, even a "small difference" in treatment outcomes, such as mortality rates or symptom severity, can be clinically significant, especially when applied to large populations.

Is there a synonym for "smaller difference is" that emphasizes the similarity rather than the distinction?

Yes, you could say "greater similarity exists" or "the values are converging". These phrases emphasize the closeness of the compared items rather than the remaining difference.