small-scale

UK: ˌsmɔːl ˈskeɪl | US: ˌsmɔːl ˈskeɪl

Definition

  1. adj. involving or limited to a small scope or size

  2. adj. (of a map, model, etc.) representing features at a reduced size

Structure
small <little>scale <size/measurement>
Etymology

The word "small-scale" combines "small," derived from Old English smæl (meaning "little in size"), and "scale," from Latin scala (meaning "ladder" or "measure"). By the 17th century, "scale" evolved to denote proportional measurement (e.g., maps). The compound "small-scale" emerged in the 19th century, logically describing things of limited scope or reduced proportions, such as models or projects.

Examples

  1. The team conducted a small-scale experiment before the full launch.

  2. This small-scale map shows only the major cities.

  3. Small-scale farming is common in rural communities.

  4. The artist specializes in small-scale sculptures.

  5. We need a small-scale test to evaluate the software's performance.