small-bodied

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small-bodied" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an organism or object that has a smaller physical size or stature compared to others in its category. Example: "The small-bodied species of the bird family are often more agile and can navigate through dense foliage more easily."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

H. naledi has a range of body mass similar to small-bodied modern human populations, and is similar in estimated stature to both small-bodied humans and the largest known australopiths.

eLife

Dormouse (family Myoxidae), any of 27 species of small-bodied Eurasian, Japanese, and African rodents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the oceans, we drive the evolution of small-bodied fish by catching the big ones.

The New York Times - Science

Dawn is only the latest small-bodied, bird-like creature from the Jurassic to be unearthed by fossil hunters.

The Guardian

Therefore, large-bodied species require more nutrients and energy to grow antlers than do small-bodied species.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even before small-bodied species are counted, such studies suggest that Polynesians exterminated at least 1,000 species of birds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In general, they were relatively small-bodied, with large chewing teeth but reduced (sometimes highly reduced) canine teeth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Moreover, large-bodied heteropterans caught more fish than small-bodied individuals.

International Aquatic Research

"We should be careful about discounting small-bodied taxa as the last common ancestor," Alba says.

Science Magazine

Clade 1 is comprised of small-bodied skinks while clade 2 comprised the medium bodied skinks.

Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Except for Castor, these beavers were generally small bodied.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing species or populations, use "small-bodied" to clearly distinguish them from larger counterparts within the same group. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures precise communication in scientific writing.

Common error

Avoid using "small-bodied" when a more specific term (e.g., "petite", "compact") would provide a clearer and more nuanced description. Overuse can lead to imprecise communication; always consider the specific characteristic you want to highlight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small-bodied" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective. It modifies nouns to indicate that something possesses a smaller than average or typical body size. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

77%

Encyclopedias

12%

News & Media

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small-bodied" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes something having a smaller body size compared to others in its category. Ludwig confirms its wide acceptability. Primarily used in scientific, encyclopedic and journalistic contexts, the phrase helps differentiate organisms or objects by size. Related alternatives include "petite physique" and "compact build". When using "small-bodied", ensure it adds clarity and specificity to your writing and avoid vague or redundant applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

miniature build

Implies an extremely small and proportionally perfect body.

diminutive stature

Focuses on the shortness in height or overall size.

undersized figure

Emphasizes that the body is smaller than the average size.

petite physique

Emphasizes the slenderness or delicacy of the body.

slight frame

Indicates a delicate and not heavily built body structure.

compact build

Highlights the dense and well-proportioned nature of a small body.

lightweight physique

Highlights the low weight associated with a small body size.

finely built

Suggests a small and delicately constructed body shape.

slender form

Suggests a graceful and thin body shape.

trim body

Describes a body that is small but fit and well-proportioned.

FAQs

How to use "small-bodied" in a sentence?

The term "small-bodied" is typically used to describe organisms that are smaller in size compared to others within their species or related groups. For example, "The study focused on the ecological impact of "small-bodied fish" in freshwater ecosystems".

What can I say instead of "small-bodied"?

Alternatives to "small-bodied" include "petite physique", "compact build", or "diminutive stature", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of small size.

Which is correct, "small-bodied" or "small body"?

"Small-bodied" functions as an adjective, while "small body" is a noun phrase. Use "small-bodied" to describe something (e.g., "small-bodied species"), and "small body" to refer to the body itself (e.g., "the animal had a small body").

What's the difference between "small-bodied" and "short"?

"Small-bodied" refers to the overall size and proportions of an organism or object, while "short" typically refers to height or length. A creature can be long but "small-bodied", if it has a slender or delicate build, but it cannot be short if it is not about height or length. For example, a snake.