What does “Small potatoes” mean?
"Small potatoes" means something that is not important or significant.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Don't worry about it, it's just small potatoes.
Example
Compared to the other issues we're dealing with, this is small potatoes.
Example
I'm not concerned about that, it's small potatoes in the grand scheme of things
Is “Small potatoes” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Small potatoes” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Small potatoes” effectively in context?
You can use "Small Potatoes" to downplay the importance or significance of something. It suggests that the thing being discussed is not worth much attention or concern. For example, if someone is worried about a minor mistake they made, you might say, 'Don't worry about it, it's just small potatoes.'
- 1Friendship
When a friend apologizes for being late, you can say, 'No problem, it's small potatoes.'
- 2Work
If a colleague is stressed about a small error in a report, you can reassure them by saying, 'It's small potatoes compared to the other issues we're dealing with.'
- 3Perspective
When someone brings up a minor inconvenience, you can dismiss it by saying, 'I'm not concerned about that, it's small potatoes in the grand scheme of things.'
Similar phrases to “Small potatoes”:
Something that has little or no importance or impact
Example
The issue is inconsequential, we can ignore it.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Small potatoes” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Small Potatoes" is unknown.
Is “Small potatoes” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Small Potatoes" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to minimize the importance of something and to reassure others that it is not a big deal.
What tone does “Small potatoes” have?
"Small Potatoes" conveys a casual and dismissive tone. It is used to downplay the significance of something and to suggest that it is not worth much attention or concern.
Can “Small potatoes” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Small Potatoes" is an informal expression. It is commonly used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it may not be appropriate in more formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Don't worry about it, it's just small potatoes.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Small potatoes!' to imply that something is not important.
