small
/smoːl/
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The word "small" is a very common adjective used to describe size, amount, or degree. It is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Common collocations include "small print" (details that are hard to read), "small talk" (polite conversation about unimportant subjects), "small change" (coins of low value), "small business," and "small amount." It often contrasts with "large" or "big."
Meanings
Examples
The new apartment felt quite small after living in a house.
It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to her.
Many small businesses are struggling to compete with larger corporations.
We have a small budget for marketing this quarter.
Even a small change in routine can sometimes make a big difference.
Common Mistakes
Non-native speakers sometimes confuse "small" with "little." While often interchangeable, "little" can also imply a sense of endearment, pity, or insignificance beyond just size (e.g., "a poor little cat"). "Small" is more strictly about physical size or quantity. Additionally, "small" is typically used before a noun (a small house), whereas "little" can sometimes be used as an adverb (he eats little).
Cultural Notes
The concept of "small" appears in several English idioms and cultural references. "Small world" is a common exclamation when encountering someone unexpectedly or discovering a surprising connection. "Small potatoes" refers to something or someone insignificant. "Small mercies" refers to minor good things that happen in a generally bad situation. The phrase "think big, start small" is a common motivational saying.
Related Words
Etymology
From Middle English smal, from Old English smæl ("small, narrow, slender"), from Proto-Germanic *smalaz ("small, narrow"), from Proto-Indo-European *smel- ("small, thin"). Cognates include Dutch smal ("narrow"), German schmal ("narrow"), Old Norse smalr ("small, slender"), and Gothic smals ("small").