the smaller of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the smaller of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to compare two items and indicate which one is more diminutive. For example, "The smaller of the two bicycles was the one with the shorter handlebars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was the smaller of the two.

The New York Times

Foodtown, the smaller of the co-ops, lags by comparison.

The New York Times

Last year, I used the smaller of the two handsets.

Independent

The symbiont is defined as the smaller of the organisms involved in a symbiotic interaction.

Princeton University

With intense concentration, Leeming starts on the smaller of the two horns.

Columbia University

Each play is also presented in the smaller of the Cherry Lane's theaters.

The New York Times

I liked the smaller of the two main dining rooms, adjacent to the polished bar.

The New York Times

The smaller of the two panels voted on pre-1943 plikers like Gordon.

The New York Times

"Oh, hell yes, they're a problem," the smaller of the two guys said.

The New Yorker

Metrocab (UK) Ltd., the smaller of the two, went into receivership in February.

The New York Times

In the smaller of the restaurant's two dining rooms, tilted glass panels support a long banquette.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the smaller of" to clearly differentiate between two options or items when size is a relevant factor. For example, "Choose the smaller of the two files to ensure faster upload times."

Common error

Avoid using "the smaller of" when referring to importance or value. While something can be physically smaller, it doesn't automatically imply it's less significant. For instance, instead of saying "the smaller of the problems", consider "the less significant problem" if you're referring to impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the smaller of" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by specifying that it is the lesser in size when compared to one other item. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

19%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the smaller of" is a comparative phrase used to specify the lesser size between two items. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure and widespread usage across various contexts. It is commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science. When writing, remember to use it appropriately to compare physical dimensions and avoid confusing size with importance. Consider using alternative phrases like "the lesser of" or "the slighter of" for variety. Keep in mind that "the smaller of" refers to a comparison between two items specifically, unlike "the smallest of" which is used for more than two.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the lesser of

Replaces "smaller" with "lesser", emphasizing a lower degree or amount rather than physical size.

the tinier of

Uses "tinier" for a more informal and emphatic expression of smallness.

the minor of

Indicates something of lesser importance or significance.

the slightest of

Highlights a minimal or negligible difference in size or degree.

the diminutive of

Replaces "smaller" with a more formal term, "diminutive", suggesting a reduced size.

the slighter of

Highlights a subtle or barely noticeable difference.

the inferior of

Emphasizes a lower quality or status in addition to size.

the junior of

Indicates a lower rank or status, often related to age or experience.

the lighter of

Focuses on weight rather than overall size.

the narrower of

Replaces "smaller" focusing on width.

FAQs

How can I use "the smaller of" in a sentence?

Use "the smaller of" to compare two items based on size. For instance, "The smaller of the two cars is more fuel-efficient".

What is a good alternative to "the smaller of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "the lesser of", "the slighter of", or "the tinier of".

When is it appropriate to use "the smaller of"?

It's appropriate when you want to specifically compare the physical size of two items. Make sure the context relates to actual dimensions rather than abstract qualities like importance.

What's the difference between "the smaller of" and "the smallest of"?

"The smaller of" implies a comparison between only two items. "The smallest of" is used when comparing three or more items and identifying the one with the least size.