take a small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to taking a small amount of something, such as food, drink, or a quantity of an item. Example: "Please take a small piece of cake to enjoy with your coffee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Take a small bag.

Independent

Q. Let's take a small step first.

The New York Times

I take a small kitchen knife and a metal rod.

The New York Times

Let her take a small transitional object to school.

The New York Times

If necessary, he could take a small amount of melatonin.

The New York Times

I take a small kayak, I see electric eels, dolphins.

The Guardian

end{aligned} (8)Now we take a small (varepsilon >0).

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Next, take a small sip.

Los Angeles Times

Take a small step today.

Huffington Post

This weekend, we take a small, well-deserved break.

Huffington Post

But you can take a small group and change that".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone, use "take a small" to suggest moderation or caution, such as "take a small bite" or "take a small step".

Common error

While "take a small" is generally correct, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more precise language like "consume a limited amount" or "extract a minimal sample" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a small" functions as a verb phrase often followed by a noun, indicating the action of acquiring or utilizing something in a reduced quantity. Ludwig shows examples such as "Take a small bag" or "Take a small bite".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

34%

News & Media

28%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a small" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression commonly used to indicate obtaining or using something in a reduced quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While it's generally suitable for neutral and informal settings, more precise alternatives may be preferred in formal writing. It appears frequently in Wiki and News & Media content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a little

Focuses on the act of possessing or consuming a reduced amount, rather than the action of acquiring it.

grab a little

Suggests a quick and informal acquisition of a small quantity.

get a little

Emphasizes the receiving or obtaining of a small amount.

use a little

Highlights the application of a reduced quantity for a specific purpose.

consume a small amount

More formal and specific to intake or utilization, often referring to food or resources.

accept a small portion

Suggests receiving a limited quantity, often of food or an offered item.

extract a small sample

Focuses on the removal of a limited part from a larger whole, commonly in scientific or analytical contexts.

remove a small piece

Emphasizes the detachment of a reduced element from a larger object.

borrow a little

Indicates the temporary acquisition of a small quantity with the expectation of return.

allocate a small share

Refers to assigning a limited portion of a resource or asset.

FAQs

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

You can use "take a small" when referring to obtaining or using a reduced amount of something. For example, "Take a small sample of the wine before serving it" or "take a small portion of dessert to avoid overeating".

What are some alternatives to "take a small"?

Alternatives include "have a little", "grab a little", or "use a little", depending on the specific context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "take a small"?

While grammatically correct, "take a small" may sound less formal in certain professional or academic contexts. Consider using more precise language like "extract a minimal sample" or "allocate a limited portion" in those situations.

What's the difference between "take a small amount" and "take a large amount"?

"Take a small amount" implies using or obtaining a limited quantity, while "take a large amount" suggests using or obtaining a significant quantity. The choice depends on the specific context and desired outcome.