slightly small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is small in size, but with a nuance that it is only a little smaller than what might be considered small. Example: "The package was slightly small for the items I ordered, but it still fit everything inside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

At the bottom of the page is a (slightly small) pic of something which another developer, Alastair Jardine, has come up with as an example.

The Guardian

I found the backlit keys slightly small, which reflects the fact that the XPS 13's chassis is closer to an 11.6in than a 13.3in laptop.

The Guardian - Tech

But you can't pinch and zoom on the text, which I found slightly small and in a font that's too sparse for at-a-glance cooking uses.

The New York Times - Tech

Using the desktop version, I e-mailed myself the Italian Sausage recipe, opened it on a Galaxy Tablet and found the text easy to read, if slightly small.

The New York Times - Tech

Panther fans might cringe at Alexander; being slightly small and not possessing a great burst, he's a little reminiscent of Everette Brown, arguably the worst investment of Hurney's 11-year career here.

The New York Times

Until the 27th iteration, the value of θ becomes slightly small.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Smart, bold and imaginative, Mr. Selya turned to choreography that tended to be intriguingly oddball but slightly small-scale.

The New York Times

Hers was slightly smaller.

The Guardian

The rear wheel was slightly smaller.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The women's pool is slightly smaller.

The New York Times - Sports

It's slightly smaller than a pigeon.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slightly small", ensure the context clearly indicates what the item is being compared to. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly small" when a more precise measurement or comparison is available. For example, instead of saying "the room was slightly small", specify the dimensions or compare it to another room.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly small" functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that something is a small size with a minor difference. Ludwig AI examples confirm its use in describing physical dimensions or quantities that are marginally less than expected.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

57%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slightly small" serves as a compound adjective to describe something that is a bit smaller than average or expected. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, including news, scientific research, and general descriptions. While suitable for most registers, it's crucial to use it with a clear reference point and consider more precise measurements when accuracy is paramount. Ludwig AI underlines the importance of understanding these nuances for effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat small

Indicates a degree of smallness, similar to "slightly small", but with a slightly different emphasis.

a bit small

More informal way of saying "slightly small".

just a little small

Emphasizes the minor degree of smallness.

marginally small

Suggests that something is small by a very slim margin.

fractionally small

Indicates a small size change but with emphasis on precision.

relatively small

Indicates a comparison where something is smaller than something else.

comparatively small

Similar to relatively small, emphasizing a comparison.

noticeably small

The attribute of smallness is clear and easily noticed.

substantially small

A size noticeably smaller that impacts an aspect or function of that object.

considerably small

A size smaller but noticeable from the average and has considerable impact.

FAQs

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

You can use "slightly small" to describe something that is a bit smaller than average or expected. For example: "The shirt was "slightly small", so I exchanged it for a larger size."

What are some alternatives to "slightly small"?

Alternatives include "somewhat small", "a bit small", or "just a little small". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "slightly small"?

While "slightly" and "small" can seem somewhat repetitive, the phrase "slightly small" emphasizes that the difference in size is minor or not significant. It's generally acceptable and understood.

When should I avoid using "slightly small"?

Avoid using "slightly small" when greater precision is needed. If the size difference is crucial, provide specific measurements or a more descriptive term.