smaller

Thân thiện

The child holds the smaller of the two apples.

Definition

Adjective: Of a size that is less than another size; comparatively little. Used to describe something that has been compared to another thing and found to be of reduced dimensions, amount, number, or importance.

Usage

The adjective "smaller" is the comparative form of "small." It is used to directly compare two items, indicating that one possesses a lesser degree of size, quantity, or significance than the other. It is typically followed by "than" when the object of comparison is stated. - When comparing two specific things: "This box is smaller than that one." - When the comparison is implied by context: "I need a smaller size." (Implied: smaller than the current size.)

Examples

• The apartment was much smaller than their previous house.
• She chose the smaller piece of cake.
• As the company grew, his role became progressively smaller.
• A smaller number of students attended the lecture this week.

Advanced Usage

• "the smaller of (two)": Used to specify the item that is less in size or amount between two explicitly mentioned options.
  • He was given the smaller of the two portions.
• In technical or formal writing, "smaller" can describe reduced magnitude, scale, or intensity.
  • The experiment was conducted on a smaller scale to conserve resources.
  • There is a smaller probability of error with the new method.

Variants and Related Words

• Small (adjective): The base form, meaning little in size.
• Smallest (adjective): The superlative form, meaning the most little in size among three or more items.
• Smallness (noun): The quality or state of being small.

Synonyms

• Lesser: Often used for degree or importance (e.g., , ).
• Tinier: A more informal synonym emphasizing extreme smallness in comparison.
• Reduced: Indicates something has been made smaller.

Antonyms

• Larger: The comparative form of "large."
• Bigger: A common comparative synonym for "larger."
• Greater: Often used for degree, amount, or importance.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Smaller fish to fry": A variant of "bigger fish to fry," meaning to have less important matters to deal with. (Note: The more common idiom is "bigger fish to fry").
• "The smaller the better": A saying indicating a preference for minimal size or quantity.
• "Smaller than life": A less common play on the idiom "larger than life," used to describe someone or something unimpressive or underwhelming.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. small or little relative to something else

Từ đồng nghĩa

• littler