Smallness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
smallness
[หsmษหlnษs ]
Definitions
in size
The quality or condition of being small in size. Smallness can refer to physical size, extent, amount, or significance.
Synonyms
littleness, minuteness, petiteness, tininess.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smallness |
General term to describe the state of being small in size or proportion. Often used in neutral contexts.
|
| littleness |
Used to describe someone's small size in a more subjective or emotional way, often with a sense of endearment or affection.
|
| tininess |
Emphasizes the extremely small size of an object or person in an informal or playful manner. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
|
| minuteness |
Refers to something being extremely small, often used in a detailed or scientific context.
|
| petiteness |
Describes someone's small size in a delicate and graceful manner, often used to describe women's or girls' figures.
|
Examples of usage
- The smallness of the apartment made it difficult to fit all the furniture.
- Despite its smallness, the village had a strong sense of community.
- She was frustrated by the smallness of her paycheck.
importance
The state or quality of lacking importance or significance. Smallness in this context refers to lack of influence, power, or impact.
Synonyms
insignificance, negligibility, triviality, unimportance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smallness |
This is typically used to describe the physical size of an object or quantity in a neutral or descriptive manner.
|
| insignificance |
This word implies a lack of importance or value, usually in a more abstract or metaphorical sense.
|
| unimportance |
This is used to describe something that lacks importance or significance, often to emphasize it is not a priority.
|
| triviality |
Use this word when referring to something that is not only small but also not worth considering or dealing with, often with a slightly dismissive tone.
|
| negligibility |
This term is often used in technical or scientific contexts to indicate that something is so small or minor that it can be disregarded.
|
Examples of usage
- The smallness of the matter was evident in the lack of attention it received.
- His smallness in the company hierarchy made it hard for him to be heard.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies suggest people often perceive smallness as cute or endearing, invoking feelings of nurturing.
- A sense of smallness can lead to feelings of humility and mindfulness, reminding individuals of their place in the world.
- Smallness in the context of personal achievements can foster resilience, encouraging individuals to appreciate small progress.
Cultural Significance
- In art and literature, smallness often symbolizes innocence, simplicity, or humilityโthink of characters like Alice in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'.
- Many cultures celebrate smallness through festivals or stories that highlight the value found in simple, small things.
- In architecture, 'smallness' can convey intimacy, as seen in tiny homes or cozy cafes that encourage close connections.
Natural World
- Small creatures, like ants and mice, play essential roles in their ecosystems, helping with decomposition and pest control.
- The phenomenon of 'small size' is advantageous for many species, leading to increased agility and adaptability in various environments.
- In botany, many small plants contribute significantly to biodiverse ecosystems, providing habitats and food sources for wildlife.
Philosophy
- Discussions about smallness often explore the value of simplicity versus complexity in life, emphasizing that less can sometimes mean more.
- Philosophers like Laozi have espoused the idea that recognizing smallness in nature can lead to deeper insights about the universe.
- In existential thought, the concept of smallness relates to feelings of insignificance in the vastness of existence, prompting reflection on personal meaning.
Origin of 'smallness'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'small' comes from Old English 'sma(e)ll', which had similar meanings around size and amount.
- Related words in other languages include 'petit' in French and 'klein' in German, which also mean small.
- The suffix '-ness' turns adjectives into nouns, indicating a state or qualityโin this case, the quality of being small.
The word 'smallness' originated from the Middle English word 'smalnesse', which was derived from the Old English word 'smรฆl' meaning 'small' and the suffix '-nesse' denoting a state or condition. Over time, 'smallness' evolved to its current form in Modern English, retaining its original meaning of being small in size or lacking importance.