is significantly smaller

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is significantly smaller" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the size of one object or quantity to another, indicating a notable difference in size. Example: "The new model of the smartphone is significantly smaller than its predecessor, making it easier to carry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That cushion is significantly smaller than that required of banks.

The New York Times

"The size of those impacts is significantly smaller with appropriate controls".

The New York Times - Science

Although his cast of 23 is significantly smaller, Church admits to a certain apprehension about the scale of the project.

The Guardian

Aozora said Tuesday in a statement that its actual exposure is "significantly smaller" than what Lehman reported.

The New York Times

That is significantly smaller than the first earthquake, but still serious.

The Economist

Yet proportionally, the loss of jobs is significantly smaller for the city than for the nation.

The New York Times

The 4.5in screen is hardly "mini" but it does mean the device is significantly smaller than the larger 5in HTC One M8.

The Guardian - Tech

Although one of the dissenting justices of the State Supreme Court estimated that disparate standards potentially affected 170,000 votes, the number at issue is significantly smaller.

The New York Times

It has a larger capacity than the hard drive on many computers, but is significantly smaller than a Snickers bar.

The New York Times

Instax film is significantly smaller than Polaroids.

TechCrunch

In contrast, the proportion of primary NO2 is significantly smaller.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing sizes, ensure the context clearly identifies both items being compared. For example, "The new phone model "is significantly smaller" than the previous version, making it easier to handle."

Common error

Avoid using "is significantly smaller" without specifying what it is smaller than. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. Always provide a clear reference point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is significantly smaller" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating its size relative to another entity. It highlights a considerable difference in magnitude, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is significantly smaller" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating a notable difference in size. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Usage is common across news, scientific, and general contexts, and the phrase is generally appropriate for neutral to professional communications. When employing this phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and specific, avoiding vague references. Alternatives such as "is considerably smaller" or "is much smaller" can provide slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is considerably more compact

Emphasizes compactness as opposed to pure size difference.

is substantially more diminutive

Uses more formal language to convey smallness.

is markedly reduced in size

Highlights the reduction aspect of the size difference.

is appreciably less expansive

Focuses on the expansive nature and its reduction.

is notably more petite

Emphasizes a delicate smallness.

is far more condensed

Indicates a tighter arrangement within a smaller space.

is a good deal more miniature

Uses a more playful tone to suggest smallness.

is discernibly more slight

Focuses on the slenderness or thinness.

is substantially shrunk in dimensions

Highlights the shrinking or reduction of dimensions.

is much more undersized

Emphasizes that something is below the typical or expected size.

FAQs

How can I use "is significantly smaller" in a sentence?

Use "is significantly smaller" to compare the size of one object or quantity to another, emphasizing a notable difference. For instance, "The tablet "is significantly smaller" than a laptop, making it more portable."

What are some alternatives to "is significantly smaller"?

Alternatives include "is considerably smaller", "is much smaller", or "is substantially smaller", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use "is significantly smaller"?

Use it when you want to emphasize that there's a clear and important difference in size. It's suitable when the size difference is a key factor or advantage.

What's the difference between "is significantly smaller" and "is slightly smaller"?

"Is significantly smaller" indicates a notable or substantial difference in size, whereas "is slightly smaller" implies the difference is minimal or barely noticeable. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey.