small in size

USAGE SUMMARY

"small in size" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical object or space that is smaller than the norm or expectation. For example: "The laptop was small in size, but surprisingly powerful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Small in size.

Harvard Business Review

They're small in size and in duration.

The Washington Post

"Rambam's Ladder" is small in size but very humbling.

The New York Times - Books

It is small in size, but big on innovation.

The Guardian

We're small in size but we're huge in dignity.

The New Yorker

Though small in size, the project feels huge.

The New York Times - Arts

H.auropunctatus is small in size compared to other mongoose species.

Columbia University

Studies have been few and small in size.

The Washington Post

The town is relatively modern, although small in size.

Britannica

They are small in size, chemically stable and cost effective.

TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry

Java programs are usually called Java applets, because they are relatively small in size.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small in size" when you want to clearly and directly communicate that something is smaller than average or expected. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "small in size" when the context already implies size. For example, instead of "a small-sized car", simply say "a small car" to avoid being redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small in size" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it has limited dimensions or scale. The phrase often provides a descriptive detail, adding specificity to the noun it modifies, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small in size" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjectival phrase that indicates limited dimensions or scale. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability. While it might be seen as slightly redundant in some contexts, its clear and direct nature makes it useful across various registers, from neutral news reporting to formal scientific descriptions. When you use the phrase, ensure that the context benefits from the explicit specification of size, and avoid redundancy by omitting "in size" when it's already implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of small dimensions

Focuses on the specific measurement aspect.

little in size

Uses a more informal and endearing tone.

compact in dimensions

Highlights the efficient use of space.

minuscule in size

Emphasizes extreme smallness.

tiny in measurement

Replaces "size" with "measurement", focusing on the specific attribute.

on a reduced scale

Shifts the focus to the proportional aspect of size.

limited in scale

Highlights the restricted extent or scope.

understated in scale

Implies a deliberate reduction in size or impact.

diminutive in proportion

Emphasizes the relative smallness compared to a standard.

compact in its form

Highlights shape, emphasizing space-saving aspects.

FAQs

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

You can use "small in size" to describe physical objects, spaces, or even abstract concepts. For example, "The apartment was "small in size" but very cozy", or "Genetic studies remain "small in size", despite advances in technology."

What are some alternatives to saying "small in size"?

Alternatives include "little in size", "of small dimensions", or "compact in dimensions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "small in size"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. While some may consider it slightly redundant, it is a common and acceptable phrase in both spoken and written English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

When is it best to use "small in size" versus a simpler adjective like "small"?

Use "small in size" when you want to emphasize the physical attribute of size, especially when contrasting it with other qualities. For instance, "It may be "small in size", but it's big on innovation" highlights that despite its size, it possesses significant innovation.