When you want to convey the idea of something that is limited in quantity or a small number of, there are several synonyms that can be used. For example, you can replace "a small number of" with "a handful of", "a few", "scanty", "scattered", "sparse", "limited", "meager" "nominal," "paltry", "slight", "scarce", "paucity", "sporadic", "limited", "scanty" or "scarce". Each of these words can add nuance to your communication and help to paint a more vivid picture of the quantity of something you are discussing. So, whether you are writing an academic paper or having a casual conversation, consider using a synonym for "a small number of" to add precision and clarity to your language.