to a small degree

USAGE SUMMARY

"to a small degree" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to express a small amount or level of something. For example, "His work improved to a small degree after the first month of training."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I think all women have to a small degree.

The Guardian - Film

"Every one of us is guilty to a small degree".

The Guardian

To a small degree, her show draws on it, too.

The Guardian

To a small degree, that already is happening.

MIT Technology Review

The women also seemed, to a small degree, wobblier.

The New York Times

The structure was idealised to a small degree.

Ocean Engineering

And while Diana Munson cooperated to a small degree, she declined to be interviewed.

The New York Times - Sports

The only real disadvantages to this configuration are complexity, and to a small degree, cost.

How to Cheat at Securing Linux

Also, the methane content increased with increasing digestion temperatures, but only to a small degree.

Bioresource Technology

big advances in scientific knowledge originated this way only to a small degree.

Princeton University

That, to a small degree, is what I was doing when I began corresponding with Mr. Mutumba.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to a small degree", consider if a more specific adverb like "slightly" or "marginally" would provide greater clarity and conciseness.

Common error

Avoid using "to a small degree" when the impact is negligible or non-existent. Ensure there is a discernible, albeit minor, effect before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a small degree" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the extent or degree to which something is true or applicable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to a small degree" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to express a slight or limited impact. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used in written English. Its frequency and applicability across diverse fields—including news, science, and encyclopedias—underscore its importance in nuanced communication. While alternatives like "slightly" or "somewhat" exist, "to a small degree" provides a specific emphasis on the limited extent of an effect, making it a valuable tool for precise and accurate writing. When considering its use, ensure that the context genuinely reflects a minor effect to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly

This adverb directly replaces the entire phrase, offering a more concise alternative.

only slightly

Adds emphasis to the smallness of the degree.

somewhat

Similar to "slightly", but can sometimes imply a slightly larger extent.

to some extent

This alternative focuses on the partial nature of the effect or influence.

a little

A more informal way of expressing a small quantity or degree.

marginally

Implies a minimal or barely noticeable difference or effect.

just a bit

A colloquial expression for a small quantity or degree.

in a limited way

Highlights the restricted or confined nature of the action or quality.

barely

Indicates that something almost doesn't happen or exist.

in a minor capacity

Focuses on the reduced role or function.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to a small degree"?

You can use alternatives like "slightly", "somewhat", or "a little" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "to a small degree" in formal writing?

Yes, "to a small degree" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider whether a more precise term would be more effective. For example, "marginally" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "to a small degree" and "to a large degree"?

"To a small degree" indicates a minimal impact or effect, while "to a large degree" signifies a significant or substantial impact.

When should I avoid using the phrase "to a small degree"?

Avoid using "to a small degree" when the effect or impact is negligible or non-existent. In such cases, it may be more accurate to state that there was no effect or impact at all.