smaller capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smaller capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the size or volume of something, indicating that it holds less than another object or entity. Example: "The new model has a smaller capacity than the previous version, making it more suitable for compact spaces."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Smaller roads are sometimes referred to as places, drives (though not all drives are smaller capacity roads, some are major thoroughfares) or courts.

Wikipedia

These batteries may hold their charge longer in storage, but they come with smaller capacity.

The New York Times - Tech

So if you stay in a smaller capacity, it's even more difficult.

The Guardian - Sport

A small elevator close to the main elevator was then used, but it had a much smaller capacity.

The New York Times

After all, they're dealing with airlines that so far have kept smaller capacity in line with demand.

The New York Times

Try to reduce anxiety, because it uses up working memory, leaving a much smaller capacity available for processing and encoding new information.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

As a consequence of deregulation, competition and problems in securing capital outlays for expansion of the infrastructure, modern power systems are operating at ever-smaller capacity and stability margins.

Decision Support Systems

It is priced in line with the $199 smaller-capacity iPhone.

The New York Times

The airlines are putting more planes in the air each year -- a trend that is aggravated by growing use of smaller-capacity, fuel-efficient regional jets.

The New York Times

A second boost for Airbus came in 1978, when it launched a program to develop a smaller-capacity, medium-range plane.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Distributor eOne managed to retain 430 cinemas for the second session (down from 438 the week before), but will doubtless have lost out on showtimes, or seen the film shoved into smaller-capacity screens.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "smaller capacity" when a literal reduction in size or volume is intended; consider "less efficient" or "less powerful" for other contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "smaller capacity" to describe abstract concepts like skills or knowledge. Opt for phrases like "limited expertise" or "reduced knowledge base" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smaller capacity" functions as a noun phrase, where "smaller" modifies the noun "capacity". It describes the attribute of having a reduced capability or amount of something. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

29%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smaller capacity" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term for describing something that holds or produces less than another. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently across diverse sources, including news, science, and general knowledge platforms. While versatile, it is best used to describe tangible reductions in size or amount, as overuse in abstract contexts can be misleading. Considering alternatives like "reduced volume" or "less storage" can provide more nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less storage

Specifically refers to storage capacity.

reduced volume

Replaces "capacity" with a synonym emphasizing physical size.

restricted size

Emphasizes the physical size restriction.

limited space

Focuses on the spatial aspect of capacity.

lower limit

Highlights the restricted maximum amount.

downsized capability

Uses a more formal tone to describe a reduction in capability.

decreased ability

Shifts the focus to capability rather than physical size.

diminished power

Focuses on power capacity.

lessened extent

Describes a reduction in the scale or scope.

curtailed potential

Highlights the reduced possibility or potential due to capacity limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "smaller capacity" in a sentence?

You can use "smaller capacity" to describe items that hold less than others. For example, "The new phone has a "smaller capacity" battery than the previous model".

What are some alternatives to "smaller capacity"?

Alternatives include "reduced volume", "limited space", or "less storage" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "less capacity" instead of "smaller capacity"?

While "less capacity" is understandable, "smaller capacity" is generally preferred when referring to physical size or volume. "Less" is better suited for uncountable nouns. Consider "reduced capacity" as a more formal alternative.

What is the difference between "smaller capacity" and "lower capacity"?

"Smaller capacity" typically relates to physical size or volume, while "lower capacity" can also refer to performance or output. Use "smaller" when referring to dimensions, and "lower" when discussing performance metrics.