Word
smallest
Phoneticssmall·est, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsmɔɫəst/
UK/smˈɔːləst/
Definitions
01minimum size
A1 · Beginner
adj. smaller than all others of the same kind.
adj. denoting the person or object that is of the least physical size or extent compared to all others in a group.
“The smallest kitten in the litter was the first one to fall asleep.”
“Even the smallest adjustment to the telescope's lens can significantly alter the clarity of the distant star's image.”
Pitfall
This is the most small box.
This is the smallest box.
For one-syllable adjectives like 'small', use the '-est' ending to make the superlative form instead of using 'most'.
02least amount or importance
B1 · Intermediate
adj. the very least amount of something, or something that is not important at all.
adj. referring to the least possible amount, degree, or significance.
“He didn't show the smallest bit of interest in the movie.”
“The manager refused to tolerate even the smallest deviation from the safety protocols established by the board.”
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A1 · Beginner
- Updated
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