very small amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very small amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quantity that is minimal or insignificant in size or volume. Example: "The recipe calls for a very small amount of salt to enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's just a very small amount".

The New York Times

Haiti gets a very small amount.

Cornell University

Only a very small amount is fake news and hoaxes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sprinkle with a very small amount of ground nutmeg.

The New York Times

"Now I only have a very small amount," she says.

The Guardian

"A very small amount is probably enough," Dr. Villarreal said.

The New York Times

A very small amount of honey will also work.

The New York Times

'Some of the goods—a very small amount—are shipped to Memphis by rail.

Cornell University

Most animal based proteins contain more protein and only a very small amount of carbohydrate.

Harvard University

Decisions are based on a very small amount of American history.

University of California, Berkeley

Acrylics and some gouaches contain a very small amount of formaldehyde as a preservative.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is important, consider using more specific terms like "trace amount" or "minimal quantity" instead of the general phrase "very small amount".

Common error

While "very small amount" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal contexts. Opt for more precise terms like "minimal quantity" or "trace amount" to enhance the clarity and sophistication of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very small amount" functions primarily as a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate a minimal or insignificant quantity. As seen in Ludwig, it is used to describe both tangible and intangible elements, such as ingredients in recipes or amounts of money.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very small amount" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a minimal quantity across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable, spanning from news and media to academic and scientific fields. While acceptable in formal writing, considering more precise alternatives like "minimal quantity" can enhance clarity. Whether you're discussing ingredients in a recipe or amounts of money, this phrase effectively conveys the limited scale involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tiny quantity

Emphasizes the extremely small size of the amount.

minimal quantity

Highlights the amount being the least possible or acceptable.

negligible amount

Focuses on the insignificance or unimportance of the quantity.

minute quantity

Stresses the extremely small and precise nature of the amount.

scant amount

Suggests the amount is barely sufficient or inadequate.

modicum

Implies a limited but perhaps valuable or desirable quantity.

trace amount

Specifically refers to a very small quantity detectable but often unimportant.

iota

Emphasizes the extreme insignificance and smallness of the amount.

fraction

Indicates a portion or a part of something, often a small one.

speck

Refers to a tiny particle or a very small amount, often used for solids.

FAQs

How can I use "very small amount" in a sentence?

You can use "very small amount" to describe a quantity that is minimal or insignificant. For example, "The recipe calls for a "very small amount" of salt."

What are some alternatives to "very small amount"?

Alternatives include "tiny quantity", "minimal amount", or "negligible quantity", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "very small amount" or "small amount"?

Both phrases are correct, but "very small amount" emphasizes the limited quantity more strongly than simply "small amount". The choice depends on the desired emphasis in your writing.

Can I use "very small amount" in formal writing?

Yes, "very small amount" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but in certain contexts, more precise terms like "minimal quantity" or "trace amount" may be more appropriate for enhanced clarity.