smallest extent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smallest extent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the minimum degree or level of something, often in a comparative context. Example: "The changes made to the project were only to the smallest extent, ensuring that the original concept remained intact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Sea ice in the Arctic has shrunk to its smallest extent ever recorded, smashing the previous record minimum and prompting warnings of accelerated climate change.

The Guardian

Arctic ice retreated to its second smallest extent on record during the summer, with winter regrowth occurring at an unusually sluggish rate.

The Guardian

Sea ice extent in the last winter was at its smallest extent for winter since records began in 1979, data published in March showed.

The Guardian

Chemical analysis showed them to be about 4,700 years old, proving that the ice cap had reached its smallest extent in nearly five millenniums.

The New York Times

By the end of August, several weeks before the end of the summer melt season, Arctic sea ice had retreated to its smallest extent since satellite records began in 1979.

The Guardian

The ice cap usually reaches its smallest extent around now, and although the total area of ice in September fluctuates from year to year, in the last two decades it has generally declined, probably because of carbon-driven global warming.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Lunch is the same thing, but to a smaller extent".

The New York Times

For Mrs. Clinton, this is, to no small extent, the politics of necessity.

The New York Times

To no small extent, that is a reflection on the unusual interest stirred by his campaign.

The New York Times

To a small extent, the military has begun to do that.

The New York Times

Logistical changes by some importers are reducing their carbon footprint to a small extent.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing reductions or contractions, use "smallest extent" to emphasize the minimal amount of change. For example, "The policy was modified to the "smallest extent" necessary to comply with regulations."

Common error

Avoid using "smallest extent" when referring to abstract concepts like emotions or ideas, where 'least' or 'minimal' are more appropriate. Instead of saying 'He showed compassion to the "smallest extent",' consider 'He showed the least compassion.'

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smallest extent" functions as a noun phrase that typically describes a minimum spatial dimension or scope. It's used to indicate the least possible size or degree to which something can be reduced or limited, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smallest extent" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase to describe the minimum size, degree, or scope of something. Ludwig AI affirms its usability. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its widespread acceptance and utility in formal writing. While alternatives like "minimum size" or "least amount" exist, "smallest extent" is particularly effective when emphasizing spatial or quantitative limitations. A key writing tip is to use it when discussing reduction and avoid it when abstract concepts are implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Minimum size

Focuses specifically on physical dimensions or measurements.

Least amount

Emphasizes quantity rather than spatial dimensions.

Minimal degree

Highlights the lowest level or intensity of something.

Tiniest portion

Implies a very small piece or fraction.

Lowest limit

Refers to the bottom threshold or boundary.

Narrowest range

Highlights the limited scope or interval.

Diminutive scale

Implies a small or reduced scale.

Negligible quantity

Implies the quantity is so small it can be ignored.

Infinitesimal amount

Implies an immeasurably small quantity or degree.

Bottom end

Emphasizes the lowermost part or extreme.

FAQs

How can I use "smallest extent" in a sentence?

Use "smallest extent" to describe a minimal degree or size. For instance, "The company reduced its environmental impact to the "smallest extent" possible" or "The Arctic sea ice has shrunk to its "smallest extent" ever recorded".

What are some alternatives to "smallest extent"?

Alternatives include "minimum size", "least amount", or "minimal degree", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "to the smallest extent possible"?

Yes, "to the smallest extent possible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to emphasize that something is being minimized as much as feasible.

What's the difference between "smallest extent" and "least amount"?

"Smallest extent" typically refers to physical size or scope, while "least amount" refers to quantity or degree. For example, you might say 'the "smallest extent" of ice cover' but 'the "least amount" of effort'.