smaller scope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smaller scope" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a limited range or focus of a project, task, or subject matter. Example: "By narrowing the project to a smaller scope, we can ensure that we meet our deadlines more effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The fact of a crisis on a grand scale resolves those of smaller scope.

The New Yorker

There is much greater scope for fiscal stimulus to boost growth, and much smaller scope for monetary stimulus.

The Guardian - Business

For some viewers Mr. Cragg's sleek, handsome and physically substantial sculptures will have the same impact as Brancusi's did in his era (and Moore's did within the smaller scope of Britain).

The New York Times

One of the beauties of a big book -- a good one, anyway -- is that it provides space and context for language that might seem inappropriate in a work of smaller scope.

The New York Times - Books

Carolyn Kellogg has an interesting piece in the L.A. Times about the evolution of the book tour, from a publishing-house-backed fifteen-or-so-city tour in which the author reads, meets, and signs at bookstores to self-funded tours of a much smaller scope, where the author might find lodgings on couchsurfing.com.

The New Yorker

By Macy Halford March 7, 2010 Carolyn Kellogg has an interesting piece in the L.A. Times about the evolution of the book tour, from a publishing-house-backed fifteen-or-so-city tour in which the author reads, meets, and signs at bookstores to self-funded tours of a much smaller scope, where the author might find lodgings on couchsurfing.com.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Logarithmic scales reduce wide-ranging quantities to smaller scopes.

Wikipedia

Try to think of each problem as a collection of smaller problems (a sequence of simpler tasks) or as a repeated process of reducing the problem's scope to smaller scopes and then piling those scopes upon each other.

WikiHow

This paper presents the findings from a small-scale scoping project that aimed to explore the nature of, and potential for, advanced nursing practice in Kenya.

BMC Nursing

It might be several hundred thousand dollars; if it's a small scope it'll be a smaller fee.

The New York Times

In contemporary times, the small scope of industry in those countries has tended to limit trade union activity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining project goals, clarify if pursuing a "smaller scope" is strategic for efficient resource allocation.

Common error

Avoid assuming a "smaller scope" automatically simplifies a project. Consider potential impacts on overall objectives and outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smaller scope" functions as a noun phrase, where 'smaller' modifies 'scope'. It is typically used to describe the extent or range of something, indicating a reduction or limitation. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's a usable and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

41%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smaller scope" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that has been reduced in size, range, or extent. As shown by Ludwig, it is frequently used in both scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, consider whether terms like "narrow focus" or "limited scale" might be more appropriate. While a "smaller scope" can improve project manageability, it may also impact objectives. Be sure to consider both the advantages and disadvantages when reducing the scope of an initiative. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness across many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited scale

Emphasizes the restricted size or extent of something.

narrow focus

Highlights the concentration on a specific, reduced area of interest.

reduced scale

Focuses on the act of diminishing the size or extent.

tighter parameters

Indicates more restrictive boundaries or limits.

compact area

Suggests a smaller, more condensed physical or conceptual space.

constrained extent

Highlights the limitation or restriction of the range or reach.

restricted breadth

Focuses on the limited width or scope of coverage.

diminished range

Emphasizes the lessening of the variety or extent.

scaled-down version

Implies a smaller, often simplified, iteration of something larger.

more focused approach

Highlights a strategic shift toward a more concentrated effort.

FAQs

How can I use "smaller scope" in a sentence?

You might say, "The project now has a "smaller scope" after the budget cuts" or "Focusing on a "smaller scope" allowed us to deliver the project ahead of schedule".

What are some alternatives to "smaller scope"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "narrow focus", "limited scale", or "reduced scale".

Is it always better to have a "smaller scope" for a project?

Not necessarily. While a "smaller scope" can make a project more manageable, it might also limit the potential impact or benefits. The ideal scope depends on available resources, objectives, and constraints.

What's the difference between "smaller scope" and "narrow focus"?

While similar, "smaller scope" generally refers to the overall size or extent of a project or activity, whereas "narrow focus" emphasizes a concentration on specific aspects within that scope. A project with a "smaller scope" might still have a relatively broad focus, and vice versa.