Another Word for Small: 19 Synonyms with Examples
“Small” means little in size, amount or importance. The best synonym depends on whether you mean physical size, quantity or significance.
As an adjective: little in size
- little
- tiny
- compact
- miniature
- petite
- minute
- pocket-sized
As an adjective: little in amount or degree
- slight
- modest
- limited
- meagre
- scant
- low
As an adjective: not important
- minor
- trivial
- insignificant
- negligible
- unimportant
- petty
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- little
- Often adds warmth or affection: “a little house by the sea”.
- compact
- Small but well designed, often positively.
- modest
- Small in amount, often politely: a modest income.
- slight
- Small in degree: a slight delay, a slight accent.
- negligible
- So small it can be ignored.
Example sentences
- little: They live in a little cottage near the coast.
- compact: The camera is compact enough to fit in a pocket.
- modest: The charity runs on a modest budget.
- slight: There was a slight chill in the air.
- negligible: The difference in cost is negligible.
Opposite of small
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “small”?
The most useful alternatives are “little”, “tiny”, “compact”, “miniature”, “petite”. For the main sense (little in size), “little” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “little” and “compact”?
little: Often adds warmth or affection: “a little house by the sea”. compact: Small but well designed, often positively.
What is the opposite of “small”?
Common antonyms are “big”, “large”, “huge”, “major”.