What is the comparative form of “small”?
The comparative form of “small” is “smaller”.Example
The toy car is smaller than the real car.
Example
She bought a smaller house after downsizing.
What is the superlative form of “small”?
The superlative form of “small” is “smallest”.Example
Among all the fruits, blueberries are the smallest.
Example
The studio apartment is known for being the smallest living space.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with small, smaller, and smallest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more small' and 'most small' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, smaller and smallest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Small does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Small → Smaller Superlative: Small → Smallest
Expressions with similar meanings to “smaller”
Used to describe something that is smaller in size or importance
Example
He chose the lesser of two evils.
Used to indicate something that is extremely small
Example
The tinier details of the painting were only visible up close.
Expressions with similar meanings to “smallest”
Using than with comparative “smaller”
When using the comparative form smaller to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The toy car is smaller than the real car." Here, than is used to show that the size of the toy car is less than the size of the real car.
How can I use this expression in context?
“smaller” and “smallest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Objects
The new phone is smaller than the old one.
The new phone is smaller than the old one.
- 2Living Spaces
The studio apartment is known for being the smallest living space.
The studio apartment is known for being the smallest living space.
- 3Quantities
She only needs a smaller amount of sugar for the recipe.
She only needs a smaller amount of sugar for the recipe.
- 4Importance
The smallest details can make a big difference in a project.
The smallest details can make a big difference in a project.
- 5Populations
The town has the smallest population in the county.
The town has the smallest population in the county.
Related idioms and phrases
Small fish in a big pond
Someone who is not important or influential in a large group or organization.
Example
After moving to the city, she felt like a small fish in a big pond.
Think small
To focus on small or simple ideas or solutions.
Example
Instead of trying to solve the whole problem at once, it's better to think small and tackle one aspect at a time.
Small talk
Polite conversation about unimportant or uncontroversial topics.
Example
During the party, they engaged in small talk about the weather and upcoming events.
