comparative adjective
Having less physical size than another person or thing.
This box is smaller than that one.
The smaller dog is more energetic.
American English
How to pronounce smaller
adjectiveA1Very common word
SMAWler
/ˈsmɔ.lɚ/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Form of small
Smaller is usually followed by than when it compares two things.
Having less physical size than another person or thing.
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
comparative adjective
Having a lower amount, number, or degree than another.
I need a smaller amount of sugar.
There is a smaller chance of rain tomorrow.
comparative adjective
Being less serious, important, or difficult to deal with than another.
This is a smaller mistake than the first one.
We had a smaller problem with the printer today.
Useful expressions
polite conversation about ordinary topics, not serious or personal ones
We made small talk while we waited.
the small writing in a document, often containing important conditions
Read the small print before you sign.
Related words & forms
The spelling changes to smaller and smallest: both forms have two l's.