small amount
كمية صغيرة
Use it whenever you want to describe a non-specific, tiny quantity in a neutral way.
15秒了解
- Used to describe a little bit of something.
- Works for both physical objects and abstract ideas.
- A polite way to limit quantity or manage expectations.
意思
This phrase describes a little bit of something. It is used when you don't have much of an item or when you only need a tiny portion.
关键例句
3 / 6Ordering food at a cafe
I'll just have a small amount of cream in my coffee, please.
I'll just have a small amount of cream in my coffee, please.
Discussing a project at work
We only need a small amount of data to finish the report.
We only need a small amount of data to finish the report.
Texting a friend about money
I only have a small amount of cash on me right now.
I only have a small amount of cash on me right now.
文化背景
The phrase reflects a Western cultural tendency toward understatement and modesty. Using 'small amount' can act as a social lubricant to avoid appearing greedy or overly confident. It became a staple of modern English as a neutral alternative to more emotive words like 'scant' or 'pittance.'
The 'Of' Rule
Always remember to use 'of' after 'small amount' if you are naming the object. Say 'small amount of water,' not 'small amount water.'
Don't count people!
Never use 'small amount' for people. Use 'a few people' or 'a small group' instead. Using 'amount' for people makes them sound like a liquid!
15秒了解
- Used to describe a little bit of something.
- Works for both physical objects and abstract ideas.
- A polite way to limit quantity or manage expectations.
What It Means
Small amount is your go-to phrase for anything that isn't 'a lot.' It describes quantity without being too specific. Think of it as the opposite of a 'mountain' or a 'ton.' It is simple, clear, and very common.
How To Use It
You can use it for things you can count or things you can't. For example, you can have a small amount of water or a small amount of coins. It usually follows the pattern: small amount + of + noun. It is like a multi-tool in your vocabulary kit. It works for money, time, food, or even feelings.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be polite or precise. At a dinner party, you might ask for a small amount of cake to stay healthy. In a business meeting, you might mention a small amount of risk. It is perfect for texting a friend when you are running late. Just say, 'I only need a small amount of time!' It sounds natural and relaxed in almost any setting.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for things that are huge or overwhelming. If you are drowning in work, don't say you have a small amount of stress. That sounds like a joke! Also, avoid it when you need to be mathematically exact. Scientists don't say a small amount; they use milligrams. Using it for people is also weird. You wouldn't say a small amount of friends—use 'a few' instead.
Cultural Background
English speakers often use this phrase to be humble or modest. If someone asks if you speak Spanish, saying 'a small amount' sounds more polite than 'yes.' It is a way to manage expectations. In the UK and USA, being 'understated' is a common social habit. We often downplay things to avoid sounding like we are bragging.
Common Variations
You will often hear tiny amount for something even smaller. Limited amount sounds more professional or official. If you are feeling casual, you might say a bit or a smidge. If you are cooking, you might hear a pinch. But small amount remains the king of versatility. It is the safe choice that never goes out of style.
使用说明
The phrase is highly versatile and fits into almost any register. Just remember to use 'number' for people or distinct items in formal writing.
The 'Of' Rule
Always remember to use 'of' after 'small amount' if you are naming the object. Say 'small amount of water,' not 'small amount water.'
Don't count people!
Never use 'small amount' for people. Use 'a few people' or 'a small group' instead. Using 'amount' for people makes them sound like a liquid!
The Modesty Trick
If someone asks how much you know about a topic, saying 'a small amount' makes you sound humble and approachable.
例句
6I'll just have a small amount of cream in my coffee, please.
I'll just have a small amount of cream in my coffee, please.
Used here to specify a preference for a light pour.
We only need a small amount of data to finish the report.
We only need a small amount of data to finish the report.
Professional way to indicate that the task is nearly done.
I only have a small amount of cash on me right now.
I only have a small amount of cash on me right now.
A casual way to explain a financial limit.
The recipe called for a small amount of salt, not the whole bag!
The recipe called for a small amount of salt, not the whole bag!
Uses contrast for comedic effect.
I felt a small amount of guilt for leaving the party early.
I felt a small amount of guilt for leaving the party early.
Describes a subtle emotion.
A small amount of residue was found on the surface.
A small amount of residue was found on the surface.
Neutral and objective tone.
自我测试
Choose the best word to complete the sentence.
Could you please add a ___ amount of sugar to my tea?
'Small amount' is a standard collocation used for uncountable nouns like sugar.
Complete the professional phrase.
The investment carries a small ___ of risk.
We use 'amount' for abstract concepts like risk.
🎉 得分： /2
视觉学习工具
Formality of 'Small Amount'
Using 'a bit' or 'a tad'.
I'm a tad tired.
The phrase 'small amount' fits here perfectly.
A small amount of rain.
Using 'minimal' or 'negligible'.
Negligible traces were found.
Where to use 'Small Amount'
Cooking
A small amount of oil.
Finance
A small amount of interest.
Time
A small amount of time.
Emotions
A small amount of hope.
常见问题
10 个问题It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend without any issues.
Yes, it's very common. For example: I have a small amount of money in my savings.
A little is more casual and often used as an adverb. Small amount is a noun phrase that sounds slightly more precise.
Technically, 'amount' is for uncountable things, but people use it for countable things in casual speech. However, a small number of cars is more grammatically correct.
It is similar but emphasizes that the quantity is even smaller. Use tiny amount for something like a drop of ink.
You can say There is only a small amount left to show disappointment that something is almost gone.
Yes! I only have a small amount of time before my flight is a perfect sentence.
You could use a minimal quantity or a limited volume in very formal or technical writing.
Yes, it works well for abstract nouns. Even a small amount of help makes a difference.
This is often sarcasm or extreme politeness. Someone might say they have a small amount of patience when they are actually very angry.
相关表达
A bit of
A very casual way to say a small amount.
A fraction of
A very small part of a larger whole.
A touch of
Used often for flavors or illnesses (e.g., a touch of flu).
Modest amount
A polite, slightly more formal way to say small amount.
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