Smaller vs Smallest: When To Use Each One In Writing

When it comes to comparing sizes, the words “smaller” and “smallest” are often used interchangeably. However, there is a distinct difference between the two.

The proper word to use depends on the context of the sentence. “Smaller” is the comparative form of the adjective “small,” meaning that it is used to compare two things of different sizes. On the other hand, “smallest” is the superlative form of “small,” used to describe the size of one thing in comparison to all others in a group.

For example, if comparing two dogs, you could say “The Chihuahua is smaller than the Labrador Retriever.” In this case, “smaller” is the correct word to use because you are comparing the sizes of two dogs. However, if you were to say “The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the litter,” you would use “smallest” because you are comparing the size of one dog to all others in the litter.

Throughout this article, we will explore the differences between “smaller” and “smallest” in more detail and provide examples of when to use each word.

Define Smaller

Smaller is a comparative adjective that is used to describe something that is less in size or quantity than something else. It is a relative term that implies a comparison between two or more things. For example, a small car may be considered smaller than a large car, or a small quantity of food may be considered smaller than a large quantity of food.

When using the term smaller, it is important to consider the context in which it is being used. For instance, a small business may be considered smaller than a large corporation, but it may still be a significant player in its industry. Additionally, smaller can refer to a decrease in size or quantity over time, such as when a company downsizes its workforce or when a person loses weight.

Define Smallest

Smallest is a superlative adjective that is used to describe something that is the least in size or quantity among a group of things. It is the extreme form of the adjective small and implies that there is nothing smaller. For example, the smallest car is the tiniest car among all the cars in a given category, and the smallest quantity of food is the least amount of food that can be measured.

When using the term smallest, it is important to be precise about what is being compared. For instance, the smallest car in one category may be larger than the smallest car in another category. Additionally, the term smallest can be used to describe something that is insignificant or unimportant, such as the smallest detail in a painting or the smallest error in a calculation.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Choosing the right word to use in a sentence can make all the difference in how clear your message is. The words “smaller” and “smallest” are often confused, but they have distinct meanings that can impact the overall meaning of a sentence. Here’s how to use them properly.

How To Use “Smaller” In A Sentence

The word “smaller” is used to compare two things. It indicates that one thing is less in size, amount, or degree than the other. Here are some examples:

• The cat is smaller than the dog.
• I want a smaller piece of cake.
• Her salary is smaller than her coworker’s.

Notice that in each of these examples, “smaller” is used to compare two things. It’s important to use “smaller” instead of “smallest” when you’re comparing only two things. If you use “smallest,” it implies that there are more than two things being compared.

How To Use “Smallest” In A Sentence

The word “smallest” is used to compare three or more things. It indicates that one thing is the least in size, amount, or degree among a group of things. Here are some examples:

• The mouse is the smallest animal in the zoo.
• This is the smallest apartment I’ve ever seen.
• Of all the candidates, she had the smallest number of votes.

Notice that in each of these examples, “smallest” is used to compare three or more things. If you’re only comparing two things, use “smaller” instead. Using “smallest” when you’re only comparing two things can be confusing and make your sentence unclear.

More Examples Of Smaller & Smallest Used In Sentences

When it comes to using comparative and superlative adjectives, it’s essential to have a good understanding of how to use smaller and smallest in a sentence. Here are some examples to help you get a better grasp of their usage:

Examples Of Using Smaller In A Sentence

• The smaller the car, the better the fuel efficiency.
• He prefers a smaller portion size when eating out.
• The company decided to downsize to a smaller office space.
• She always chooses the smaller of two sizes when shopping for clothes.
• The smaller of the two dogs is more energetic.
• He had to use a smaller wrench to tighten the bolt.
• The smaller the font size, the harder it is to read.
• She opted for a smaller wedding ceremony with only close family and friends.
• He was able to fit all of his belongings in a smaller suitcase.
• The smaller the budget, the more creative the solutions need to be.

Examples Of Using Smallest In A Sentence

• The smallest elephant on record weighed only 200 pounds.
• She won the award for the smallest pumpkin at the county fair.
• The smallest details can often make the biggest impact.
• He has the smallest feet in his family.
• The smallest of the three bedrooms is still spacious enough for a queen-sized bed.
• The smallest mistake can lead to a major setback.
• She owns the world’s smallest violin.
• He was the smallest player on the basketball team, but he had a mean jump shot.
• The smallest country in the world is Vatican City.
• The smallest bone in the human body is located in the ear.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using comparative and superlative adjectives, such as “smaller” and “smallest,” it is easy to make mistakes that can impact the clarity and accuracy of your writing. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Smaller” When “Smallest” Should Be Used

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “smaller” when “smallest” should be used. This mistake can occur when comparing more than two objects or when trying to emphasize the exceptional nature of an object. For example, saying “This is the smaller of the two” when there are three objects being compared is incorrect. Instead, “This is the smallest of the three” should be used.

Using “Smallest” When “Smaller” Should Be Used

Conversely, using “smallest” when “smaller” should be used is also a common mistake. This mistake can occur when comparing only two objects or when trying to emphasize the comparative nature of an object. For example, saying “This is the smallest car” when comparing two cars is incorrect. Instead, “This is the smaller car” should be used.

Using “Smallest” When Comparing More Than Two Objects

Another mistake to avoid is using “smallest” when comparing more than two objects. This mistake can lead to confusion or ambiguity, as it is unclear which object is being compared to the others. Instead, use “smallest” only when comparing two objects and “smallest of all” or “smallest in a group” when comparing more than two objects.

Using “Smaller” Or “Smallest” When Comparing Non-comparable Objects

Finally, avoid using “smaller” or “smallest” when comparing non-comparable objects. For example, saying “This apple is smaller than that poem” is incorrect, as apples and poems are not comparable in size. Instead, use more appropriate comparative or superlative adjectives, such as “This apple is smaller than that pear” or “This poem is the shortest in the anthology.”

Tips For Avoiding Mistakes

• Double-check your comparisons to ensure they are accurate and clear.
• Use “smaller” when comparing only two objects and “smallest” when comparing more than two objects.
• Be mindful of the objects being compared and ensure they are comparable in size or quantity.
• Read your writing aloud to check for clarity and accuracy.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “smaller” and “smallest,” context is everything. The choice between these two words depends on the situation in which they are used, and can have a significant impact on the meaning of the sentence.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Consider the following examples:

• Context: Comparing two objects
• Example: The blue car is smaller than the red car.
• Explanation: In this context, “smaller” is the appropriate choice because it is comparing two objects of different sizes. Using “smallest” would imply that there are more than two objects being compared, and that the blue car is the smallest of them all.

• Context: Superlatives
• Example: The blue car is the smallest car in the lot.
• Explanation: In this context, “smallest” is the appropriate choice because it is a superlative. It is comparing the blue car to all the other cars in the lot and stating that it is the smallest of them all.

• Context: Comparing sizes within a group
• Example: Of all the small cars, the blue car is the smallest.
• Explanation: In this context, “smallest” is the appropriate choice because it is comparing sizes within a group. It is stating that of all the small cars, the blue car is the smallest.

As you can see, the choice between “smaller” and “smallest” depends on the context in which they are used. It is important to choose the correct word to ensure that your meaning is clear and accurate.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using “smaller” and “smallest” are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply. Below are some explanations and examples for each case:

Comparing More Than Two Items

When comparing more than two items, the rules for using “smaller” and “smallest” can become a bit tricky. In this case, “smaller” and “smallest” are no longer appropriate, and instead, we use “least” and “fewest.”

For example:

• Out of the three puppies, Spot is the smallest.
• Out of the four puppies, Spot is the least.

Comparing Qualities Instead Of Size

Sometimes, we might use “smaller” or “smallest” to describe qualities rather than size. In this case, the rules for using “smaller” and “smallest” do not apply.

For example:

• The smallest mistake can have a big impact.
• She has the smallest amount of experience, but she’s the most qualified for the job.

Irregular Comparisons

There are a few irregular comparisons where the rules for using “smaller” and “smallest” do not apply. For example, when comparing “good” and “well,” we use “better” and “best” instead of “smaller” and “smallest.”

For example:

• She is the best at playing the piano.
• He is a better basketball player than his brother.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of “smaller” and “smallest” requires practice. Here are some exercises to help:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Fill in the blank with the correct form of “smaller” or “smallest.”

1. The elephant is the ________ land animal.
2. My sister has a ________ collection of stamps than I do.
3. That is the ________ dog I have ever seen.
4. She has a ________ amount of patience.
5. Which is ________, the red or the blue one?

Answer Key:

1. largest
2. smaller
3. smallest
4. smaller
5. smaller

Exercise 2: Rewrite The Sentence

Rewrite the sentence using “smaller” or “smallest.”

1. The mountain is big.
2. The car is fast.
3. The house is expensive.
4. The city is crowded.
5. The cake is delicious.

Answer Key:

1. The mountain is not the smallest.
2. The car is not the smallest.
3. The house is not the smallest.
4. The city is the smallest.
5. The cake is not the smallest.

By practicing with these exercises, readers can strengthen their understanding and use of “smaller” and “smallest.”

Conclusion

After exploring the nuances of using “smaller” vs “smallest,” it is clear that the context and intended meaning of the sentence play a crucial role in determining which word to use. While “smaller” is appropriate for comparing two items or groups, “smallest” is reserved for superlatives and comparing three or more items or groups.

It is important to note that proper grammar and language use can greatly impact the clarity and effectiveness of communication. By continuing to learn and improve our understanding of grammar rules, we can better convey our intended messages and avoid confusion or misinterpretation.

Remember to always consider the context and intended meaning when deciding between “smaller” and “smallest.” And as with any aspect of language, never stop learning and striving for improvement.