the smaller amount of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the smaller amount of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing quantities or discussing a lesser quantity in a specific context. Example: "In this experiment, we will use the smaller amount of the two solutions to ensure accuracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Even with the smaller amount of the clarified brown butter, its persistent flavor emerges with each mouthful of soup.

The New York Times

The smaller amount of chocolate lets the cream take center stage, and gives the ganache a suave, billowy, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

The New York Times - Food

Some analysts say that the types of loans Freddie Mac has bought, and the smaller amount of capital the company has on hand, puts it at greater risk.

The New York Times

Oxidizers, such as bromate and iodate, are added routinely to compensate for the smaller amount of oxygen brought into the dough during mixing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Using a circular pouring motion, slowly stream the eggs, 1/3 at a time, into the smaller amount of boiling broth; as the first third sets, add the second; as the second sets, add the third, then turn off the heat and let the eggs sit for a minute.

The New York Times - Magazine

The electron beam finding the smaller amount of material at the edge of NPs.  .

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

The electron beam finding the smaller amount of material at the edge of NPs.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

The smaller number of TCs in the future is consistent with the smaller amount of precipitation.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Local robustness is highest for edge habitats that contain the smaller amount of resource in combination with intermediate dispersal.

Journal of Theoretical Biology

Thereafter, the smaller amount of the PAN solution is not enough to stabilize the compound of Taylor cones.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The narrower resonance peaks and the smaller amount of interfaces lead to a higher sensitivity for the nonperiodic structure [26].

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the smaller amount of", ensure the comparison is clear. Specify what it's smaller than to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the smaller amount of" when referring to something that is already understood to be infinitesimal. Consider alternatives like "trace amounts" or "negligible quantity" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the smaller amount of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a reduced or lesser quantity. It sets up a comparison, often implying a contrast with a larger amount, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

69%

News & Media

24%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the smaller amount of" serves to quantify and compare, indicating a reduced quantity or degree. It’s grammatically sound, and Ludwig AI confirms its usability across varied contexts, particularly in science and news. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the point of comparison. Consider alternatives like "a lesser quantity of" or "a reduced quantity of" for semantic variety. The phrase is versatile and appropriate for neutral to formal registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lesser quantity of

Focuses on quantity being less, interchangeable in most contexts.

a reduced quantity of

Highlights the reduction aspect, applicable when the amount has decreased.

a lower quantity of

Emphasizes a lower value or measure, suitable for numerical comparisons.

a smaller proportion of

Indicates a reduced fraction or percentage, applicable in relative contexts.

a minimal amount of

Stresses the insignificance of the quantity, useful when emphasizing scarcity.

a diminished quantity of

Highlights a decrease over time, emphasizing the fading aspect.

a reduced volume of

Specifies a smaller physical space occupied, apt for liquid or gas measurements.

a limited quantity of

Emphasizes a restriction in availability, useful in resource allocation scenarios.

a slighter quantity of

Implies a marginal difference, used when the reduction is hardly noticeable.

a lighter amount of

Suggests a decrease in weight, suitable for discussing substances or loads.

FAQs

How can I use "the smaller amount of" in a sentence?

You can use "the smaller amount of" to compare quantities or indicate a reduced quantity in a specific context. For instance, "Using "a lesser quantity of" catalyst resulted in a slower reaction time."

What's the difference between "the smaller amount of" and "less"?

"The smaller amount of" is typically used with nouns that can be counted (though treated as a mass), while "less" is generally used with uncountable nouns. For example, "the smaller amount of ingredients" versus "less water".

What can I say instead of "the smaller amount of"?

You can use alternatives like "a reduced quantity of", "a lower quantity of", or "a lesser quantity of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the smaller amount of items" or "the fewer items"?

It is more grammatically correct to say "the fewer items". "Amount" is generally used for uncountable nouns, while "number" or "fewer" is used for countable nouns.