small

[smɔːl]

small Definition

  • 1little in size, amount, or degree
  • 2not great in importance or influence
  • 3(of a voice or sound) quiet and low in volume

Using small: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "small" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The room was too small for all of us.

  • Example

    She has a small garden behind her house.

  • Example

    He has a small amount of money left.

  • Example

    The company is still in its small beginnings.

small Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using small

  • small potatoes

    something insignificant or unimportant

    Example

    Compared to the other issues we're dealing with, this is small potatoes.

  • a person or organization of little importance or power

    Example

    We need to focus on the big players, not the small fish.

  • used to express that something is not surprising given the circumstances

    Example

    Small wonder she's tired after working a 12-hour shift.

Phrases with small

  • small talk

    polite conversation about unimportant or uncontroversial matters, especially as engaged in on social occasions

    Example

    We made small talk while waiting for the meeting to start.

  • the part of a contract or agreement that contains important details and conditions, often printed in small letters

    Example

    Be sure to read the small print before signing the contract.

  • coins of low value, typically used to pay for small items or given as change

    Example

    I found some small change in my pocket and bought a candy bar.

Origins of small

from Old English 'smæl'

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Summary: small in Brief

The word 'small' [smɔːl] describes something little in size, amount, or degree. It can also refer to things that are not great in importance or influence, such as 'The company is still in its small beginnings.' 'Small' can also describe a quiet and low voice or sound. Phrases like 'small talk' and 'small print' denote polite conversation and important details, respectively. Idioms like 'small potatoes' and 'small fish' refer to insignificant things or people.

How do native speakers use this expression?