though small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "though small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or qualification, often to emphasize that despite being small, something has significance or value. Example: "The project was ambitious, though small in scale, it had a big impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Japan, though small in surface area, stretches far.

The Economist

The exact value of the penalty used here is arbitrary, though small.

Plosone

Though small, the pyramid was highly decorated.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The organization, though small, has big ambitions.

The New York Times - Arts

Though small, it is growing fast.

The Economist

Though small, it feels grand.

The New York Times

Though small, the improvements are important.

Harvard University

The whale has eyes, though small ones.

The New York Times - Science

Though small, the effect was significant.

Harvard Business Review

Though small, her downtown apartment feels spacious.

The New York Times

Though small, their space is efficiently arranged.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "though small" to introduce a surprising or noteworthy quality that exists despite the small size. For example, "Though small, the museum housed an impressive collection."

Common error

Avoid using "though small" when the size is already the main point and no surprising element is introduced. For example, instead of "The room was small, though small", simply say "The room was small".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "though small" functions as an adverbial modifier, introducing a contrasting element to a statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to indicate that despite being of limited size, something still possesses significance or impact. It modifies the clause it introduces, setting up an expectation that will be qualified.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "though small" is a versatile and commonly used conjunction phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms, that effectively introduces a contrast, emphasizing that something holds value or significance despite its limited size. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific publications, with a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. When using "though small", ensure it genuinely sets up a contrast and isn't merely redundant. Alternatives like "albeit tiny" or "even if minor" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. The phrase's high frequency and authoritative sources underscore its validity in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

albeit tiny

Emphasizes the diminutive size, similar to "though small", but with a slightly more informal tone.

even if minor

Highlights the insignificance in magnitude, akin to "though small", while retaining a neutral tone.

while compact

Focuses on the limited dimensions, similar to "though small", but with a more descriptive nuance.

notwithstanding its size

Directly addresses the size aspect, like "though small", and emphasizes its impact despite being small.

despite its limited extent

Highlights the restricted scope, akin to "though small", adding a formal tone.

even if reduced

Focuses on the diminished state, similar to "though small", highlighting its current situation.

albeit minute

Underscores the extremely small nature, similar to "though small", but with more emphasis.

while seemingly insignificant

Highlights that it appears unimportant, akin to "though small", emphasizing the potential for surprise.

although negligible

Highlights the insignificance in quantity, akin to "though small", adding a formal tone.

even at a minimum

Focuses on the minimal aspect, similar to "though small", highlighting the limitations.

FAQs

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

Use "though small" to present a contrast, indicating that something has significance or value despite its small size. For example: "Though small, the village played a crucial role in the region's history."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "though small"?

Alternatives include "albeit tiny", "even if minor", or "while compact depending on the context".

When is it appropriate to use "though small" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight that something possesses a notable quality or impact despite its limited size, creating a sense of surprise or emphasis.

What's the difference between "though small" and "although insignificant"?

"Though small" emphasizes physical size, while "although insignificant" highlights a lack of importance or impact. Choose the phrase that best reflects the characteristic you wish to contrast.