“Smaller” is a comparative form of the adjective “small,” indicating a lesser size, amount, or degree in comparison to something else. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Littler
- “Littler” is an informal synonym for “smaller.” For example, “The littler box was easier to carry.” It has a more child - like or colloquial feel to it. However, in more formal writing, “smaller” is generally preferred over “littler.”
2. Tinier
- “Tinier” emphasizes an even greater degree of smallness. For example, “The tinier the particles, the more difficult they are to see.” It implies a very small size, often to the point of being almost minuscule. Compared to “smaller,” “tinier” gives a stronger sense of extreme smallness.
3. Diminutive
- “Diminutive” is a more formal and descriptive term. It means extremely or unusually small. For example, “The diminutive figurines were carefully placed on the shelf.” This word not only indicates a smaller size but also often conveys a sense of delicacy or cuteness associated with the small object.
4. Miniature
- “Miniature” refers to a very small copy or representation of something. For example, “The miniature model of the house was a work of art.” It implies a small - scale version of a larger object. While “smaller” is a more general comparison of size, “miniature” specifically suggests a small - sized replica.
5. Lesser (in terms of size)
- “Lesser” can be used to mean smaller in size, amount, or importance. For example, “The lesser of the two parcels was still quite large.” It's a more general term that can refer to any kind of reduction in a characteristic, including size, but it's not as specific to size as “smaller” and can also imply a lower ranking in other aspects such as importance.