Small-scale: meaning, definitions and examples

🌍
Add to dictionary

small-scale

 

[ smɔːl skeɪl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

business

Involving or operating on a small scale, especially as a small business or in a localized area.

Synonyms

limited, miniature, small.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
small-scale

Missed instruction to avoid repetition.

small

A general term used to describe something of little size or extent. It can be used in a wide variety of contexts.

  • She lives in a small apartment.
  • We had a small gathering with close friends.
limited

Used when something is restricted in size, quantity, or capacity. Can imply a sense of constraint or insufficiency.

  • Due to limited resources, we can only accept a few new clients this year.
  • Her opportunities for advancement in the company were quite limited.
miniature

Refers to something that is very small and is often a smaller version of something bigger. Commonly used for models, replicas, or objects meant to be small.

  • He collects miniature models of classic cars.
  • The artist created a miniature sculpture of the famous statue.

Examples of usage

  • The company started as a small-scale operation in the founder's garage.
  • They focus on small-scale production to maintain high quality.
Context #2 | Noun

geography

A small area or region, especially when referring to a specific location or project.

Synonyms

limited, localized, specific.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
small-scale

Refers to something of limited size or scope, often used to describe projects, businesses, or operations. It implies a manageable and less risky venture.

  • They started a small-scale business selling handmade crafts.
  • The research was conducted on a small-scale basis before expanding.
localized

Describes something that is confined to a specific area or region. Often used to talk about impacts, problems, or benefits affecting a particular location.

  • The heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in the downtown area.
  • The company's efforts have been localized to urban centers.
specific

Used to describe something clearly defined or identified. It often refers to particular details, conditions, or requirements.

  • Can you be more specific about your needs?
  • Please provide specific examples of your past work.
limited

Indicates restrictions in size, number, or extent. It is often used when referring to resources, capabilities, or opportunities that are insufficient or constrained.

  • We have a limited budget for this project, so we need to prioritize our expenses.
  • Her English skills are limited, but she is improving rapidly.

Examples of usage

  • This study focuses on the effects of deforestation in a small-scale region.
  • The small-scale of the project allows for more detailed analysis.

Translations

Translations of the word "small-scale" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pequena escala

🇮🇳 छोटे पैमाने पर

🇩🇪 kleinmaßstäbig

🇮🇩 skala kecil

🇺🇦 дрібномасштабний

🇵🇱 na małą skalę

🇯🇵 小規模

🇫🇷 à petite échelle

🇪🇸 a pequeña escala

🇹🇷 küçük ölçekli

🇰🇷 소규모의

🇸🇦 على نطاق صغير

🇨🇿 malého rozsahu

🇸🇰 v malom rozsahu

🇨🇳 小规模

🇸🇮 majhnega obsega

🇮🇸 í litlum mæli

🇰🇿 шағын ауқымды

🇬🇪 მცირე მასშტაბის

🇦🇿 kiçik miqyaslı

🇲🇽 a pequeña escala

Etymology

The term 'small-scale' originated in the early 20th century, combining the words 'small' and 'scale' to refer to operations or areas that are limited in size or scope. It has been commonly used in various industries such as business, geography, and agriculture to describe activities or projects that are on a smaller, more localized level.