a small place

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small place" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a location that is limited in size or capacity. Example: "After searching for hours, we finally found a small place to eat that served delicious food."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is a small place".

The New York Times

It's a small place".

The Guardian

It's a small place," she said.

The New York Times

Liberia is a small place.

The New York Times

You live differently in a small place.

The New York Times - Arts

"Northern Ireland is a small place.

The Guardian

"But Silicon Valley is a small place".

The New Yorker

Canada is in some ways a small place.

The New Yorker

It was a small place, not very lively.

The New Yorker

And it's a small place, just 75 rooms.

The New York Times - Arts

Ghoury has never lived in such a small place.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a location, consider whether "a small place" accurately conveys the size and atmosphere you want to evoke. Use it when the limited size is a key characteristic.

Common error

Avoid using "a small place" as a standalone description. Provide specific details about what makes the place small, such as its dimensions, capacity, or the feeling it evokes. For example, instead of just saying "It's a small place", add "It's a small place, only about 200 square feet, but it feels cozy."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small place" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object within a sentence. It identifies a location characterized by its limited size. Ludwig examples show its usage in describing various locations from villages to rooms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a small place" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a location limited in size. As indicated by Ludwig, it is used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, remember to provide specific details about the location's characteristics rather than relying solely on the phrase itself. Consider using alternatives like "a tiny place" or "a compact location" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited space

Emphasizes the restriction in available area.

a confined area

Highlights the feeling of being enclosed or restricted.

a compact location

Implies efficient use of space.

a cramped spot

Stresses the uncomfortable lack of space.

a tiny locale

Emphasizes the extremely small size of the place.

a pocket-sized area

Evokes the image of something very small and easily contained.

a miniature site

Underscores the reduced dimensions of the location.

a bijou residence

A more sophisticated way to say small residence.

a little niche

Suggests a cozy or specialized area.

a snug corner

Implies a warm and comfortable, though small, area.

FAQs

How can I use "a small place" in a sentence?

You can use "a small place" to describe a location that is limited in size or area. For example: "They opened "a small place" in town that sells homemade pastries."

What can I say instead of "a small place"?

You can use alternatives such as "a tiny place", "a compact location", or "a confined area" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a small little place"?

Yes, using both "small" and "little" together is generally considered redundant. Choose either "small" or "little" to describe the place for better clarity. Using only one, like "a little place" or "a small place" is sufficient.

What's the difference between "a small place" and "a cozy place"?

"A small place" refers to the physical size of a location, while "a cozy place" describes the atmosphere or feeling of the location. A place can be both "a small place" and cozy, but it doesn't have to be.