What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
minimal
Example
The company has a minimal budget for advertising. [minimal: adjective]
Example
I prefer a minimalistic approach to interior design. [minimalistic: adjective]
small
Example
She has a small apartment in the city. [small: adjective]
Example
We only need a small amount of sugar for this recipe. [small: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Small is a more common word than minimal in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between minimal and small?
Minimal is often associated with a more formal or technical tone, while small is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.