tiniest fraction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tiniest fraction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an extremely small part or portion of something, often in a quantitative context. Example: "Even the tiniest fraction of doubt can lead to significant consequences in decision-making."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Science

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

The train plunged on, quieter by the tiniest fraction of a decibel.

The New Yorker

Ohuruogu trailed Botswana's Amantle Montsho, the 2011 world champion, for all but the tiniest fraction of the women's 400m final.

The Guardian - Sport

Most serious athletes long for greatness, but only the tiniest fraction will make a living from their passion.

The New York Times - Science

Because the first tally indicated that Mr. Bush won Florida by the tiniest fraction of the nearly six million votes cast, a recount was ordered under state law.

The New York Times

In Marvin's case he is continually depressed and bored because no task he is given can ever occupy more than the tiniest fraction of his mind.

The Guardian

For a country of 1.3 billion, if only the tiniest fraction of the population pick up a racket rather than play another sport, the future will be bright.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"It's a tiny fraction".

The New York Times

Indeed, we cannot defend even a tiny fraction of them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only a tiny fraction of men choose to have vasectomies.

The Guardian

Only a tiny fraction qualify as broadband by industry definitions.

The Guardian

But they are only a tiny fraction of the problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing extremely small quantities or differences, use "tiniest fraction" to emphasize the insignificance of the amount. For example, "The new adjustment improved the process by the "tiniest fraction", but it was enough to meet the required efficiency."

Common error

Avoid using "tiniest fraction" when referring to quantities that are small but still meaningful. Ensure the context accurately reflects an almost negligible amount. Do not use the term if a small amount is significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tiniest fraction" functions as a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate a very small part or amount. It's often used to emphasize the insignificance of the quantity being described, as exemplified by Ludwig in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

14%

Sport

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Opinion

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tiniest fraction" is a commonly used expression to describe an extremely small quantity or degree of something. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and applicability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "smallest portion" or "slightest degree" exist, "tiniest fraction" emphasizes an almost negligible amount. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the scale and significance of the quantity being described to avoid misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smallest portion

Replaces "fraction" with "portion", highlighting the part-whole relationship.

fractional part

This is a more literal synonym, using the term "fractional" directly.

minutest part

Uses "minutest" to intensify the smallness, emphasizing precision.

minimal segment

Similar to "smallest portion", but uses "segment" to convey a division.

slightest degree

Shifts focus to a minimal level or extent, suitable for abstract contexts.

minuscule bit

Synonymous to "tiniest part", employing the word "minuscule" for greater emphasis on the smallness.

infinitesimal amount

Emphasizes the extremely small quantity, close to zero.

negligible quantity

Highlights the insignificance of the amount being referred to.

mere sliver

Employs a visual metaphor, suggesting a very thin or narrow piece.

hair's breadth

Uses a common idiom to indicate a very small margin or distance.

FAQs

How can I use "tiniest fraction" in a sentence?

You can use "tiniest fraction" to describe an extremely small amount or degree of something. For example, "Even the "tiniest fraction" of error can lead to significant problems" or "He improved his time by the "tiniest fraction" of a second."

What are some alternatives to "tiniest fraction"?

Alternatives include "smallest portion", "minutest part", or "slightest degree" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "tiniest fraction" or "smallest fraction"?

Both "tiniest fraction" and "smallest fraction" are acceptable, but "tiniest fraction" emphasizes an even smaller amount. The choice depends on the degree of smallness you want to convey.

When should I avoid using the phrase "tiniest fraction"?

Avoid using "tiniest fraction" when the amount, though small, is significant or impactful. In such cases, alternatives like "small portion" or "slight increase" might be more appropriate.