the smaller ones

USAGE SUMMARY

'the smaller ones' is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you could use it in a sentence like this: "I wanted to buy the larger size of the shoes, but they didn't have my size in stock, so I settled for the smaller ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The larger ones he propped against the wall, the smaller ones on easels.

The New Yorker

In the lobbying effort, the bigger fish are leaning hard on the smaller ones.

The New York Times

Then draw another big rectangle connected to one of the smaller ones.

WikiHow

On closer inspection the smaller ones turned out to be starlings.

The New Yorker

What about all the smaller ones?

The New York Times

"The smaller ones are the best.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's also one of the smaller ones.

The New York Times

Will the taller receivers, ultimately, push the smaller ones aside?

The New York Times - Sports

He sells the smaller ones as ashtrays, bookends, etc.

The New Yorker

The bigger things drove out the smaller ones.

The New York Times

But the smaller ones may all get gobbled up".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the smaller ones" when comparing items within the same category, clearly establishing a size difference. For instance, "Choose the smaller apples for the tart."

Common error

Ensure that the context clearly defines what "the smaller ones" are being compared to. Vague references can confuse the reader. For instance, instead of saying "the smaller ones are better", specify what you're comparing, such as "the smaller apples are better for baking."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the smaller ones" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically acting as a nominal referring to a subset of items that are distinguished by their smaller size compared to others. This is supported by Ludwig, which indicates it is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the smaller ones" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively differentiates a group of items based on size. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for written English. Its usage spans various contexts, with a strong presence in news and media. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the context makes the comparison clear, thereby avoiding ambiguity. Common alternatives include "the littler ones" and "the tinier ones", each offering slight variations in nuance. Given its prevalence and grammatical correctness, mastering the use of "the smaller ones" can enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the littler ones

Replaces "smaller" with a more informal synonym, suggesting a greater difference in size.

the tinier ones

Emphasizes a very small size, more diminutive than "smaller".

the more compact ones

Focuses on compactness rather than just size.

the miniature ones

Suggests the items are scaled-down versions of something larger.

the undersized ones

Implies the items are below an expected or standard size.

the diminutive ones

Highlights a very small size, often implying cuteness or insignificance.

the junior versions

Suggests the items are younger or less developed.

the bite-sized ones

Indicates the items are small enough to be consumed in one bite; applies mainly to food.

the lesser ones

Implies a difference in importance or quality in addition to size.

the scaled-down ones

Focuses on the aspect of being reduced in scale.

FAQs

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

You can use "the smaller ones" to refer to a group of items that are smaller in size compared to others of the same type. For example: "I prefer "the smaller ones" because they are easier to handle."

What are some alternatives to "the smaller ones"?

Some alternatives include "the littler ones", "the tinier ones", or "the more compact ones" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the smaller ones"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase uses the definite article "the", the comparative adjective "smaller", and the pronoun "ones" to refer to multiple items.

When should I use "the smaller ones" instead of "the smallest ones"?

Use "the smaller ones" when comparing two groups of items where size is relative. Use "the smallest ones" when identifying the absolutely smallest items in a larger group. The phrase "the smallest ones" implies a superlative comparison.