Learn how to use the comparative “smaller” and superlative “smallest” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “smallest”?

The comparative form of “smallest” is “smaller”.

Example

The toy car is smaller than the real car.

Example

My sister's room is smaller than mine.

What is the superlative form of “smallest”?

The superlative form of “smallest” is “smallest”.

Example

Among all the houses, this one is the smallest.

Example

The ant is known for being the smallest insect.

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: SmallSmaller Superlative: SmallSmallest

Expressions with similar meanings to “smaller”

Used to describe something that is smaller in size or dimensions

Example

The tinier box can fit in my pocket.

Used to indicate something that is smaller in quantity or importance

Example

He chose the lesser of two evils.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased smallness or efficiency

Example

The more compact design allows for easier transportation.

Expressions with similar meanings to “smallest”

Similar to smallest, this emphasizes both smallness and delicacy

Example

The tiniest flower bloomed in the garden.

Used to describe the lowest level of smallness in terms of quantity or importance

Example

She had the least amount of money among her friends.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of smallness or efficiency

Example

The most compact device fits in the palm of your hand.

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: "His house is smaller than mine." Here, than is used to show that the size of 'his' house is less than the size of 'mine'.

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.

  • 2Animals

    The mouse is the smallest mammal.

    The mouse is the smallest mammal.

  • 3Rooms

    Her bedroom is smaller than the living room.

    Her bedroom is smaller than the living room.

  • 4Numbers

    Three is a smaller number than five.

    Three is a smaller number than five.

  • 5Quantities

    She has the smallest amount of money among her friends.

    She has the smallest amount of money among her friends.

Related idioms and phrases

Size doesn't matter

The importance or value of something is not determined by its size.

Example

Even though it's a small car, it can still perform well. Size doesn't matter.

Good things come in small packages

Something small can still be valuable or impressive.

Example

Don't underestimate her abilities just because she's short. Good things come in small packages.

Think big

To have ambitious or grand plans or ideas.

Example

Don't limit yourself to small goals. Think big and aim for greatness.

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