Basic Details
Word: Diminutive
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Very small in size or amount.
Synonyms: Tiny, miniature, small
Antonyms: Huge, enormous, gigantic
Idioms and Phrases
- Big things come in small packages: Used to say that something small can have a great impact or be very valuable. Example: "The diminutive puppy was timid, but big things come in small packages, as it later became the friendliest dog in the neighbourhood."
- The smaller, the better: This phrase suggests that smaller items are often more desirable or efficient. Example: "I love the diminutive model of the car; the smaller, the better for my garage space!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: The diminutive dollhouse was a miniature version of a grand mansion, complete with tiny furniture.
Example 2: She wore a diminutive silver necklace that sparkled beautifully against her dress.
Example 3: His diminutive stature did not stop him from being the fastest runner in his class.
Fun Fact
The word "diminutive" comes from the Latin word "diminutivus," which means "to lessen." It has been used in English since the late 15th century to describe something small.
Famous Quote
"It is not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog." Mark Twain
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "diminutive" mean?
a) Very large
b) Very small
c) Medium-sized
d) Extra-large
Answer: b) Very small
2. Which of these is a synonym of "diminutive"?
a) Tiny
b) Enormous
c) Colossal
d) Vast
Answer: a) Tiny
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "diminutive"?
a) Small
b) Miniature
c) Huge
d) Tiny
Answer: c) Huge
4. Which sentence uses "diminutive" correctly?
a) The diminutive cat climbed onto the kitchen counter.
b) The diminutive skyscraper was the tallest building in the city.
c) The diminutive sandwich was very filling and tasty.
d) The diminutive elephant ran through the fields.
Answer: a) The diminutive cat climbed onto the kitchen counter.
5. Which idiom suggests that something small can be important?
a) The smaller, the better
b) Big things come in small packages
c) A big fish in a small pond
d) Small talk
Answer: b) Big things come in small packages
