pequeña cantidad
/pekeɲa kantidad/from spelling rules
Small amount in Spanish is pequeña cantidad.
The phrase refers to a limited quantity of something. You can also use the word poco (little or few) combined with a noun to express a small amount. In a culinary context, specifically when referring to small amounts of cooking ingredients like salt or spices, use una pizca (a pinch). In certain contexts, such as referring to a small amount of coffee, one might use the diminutive un cafecito.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective pequeña (small) and the noun cantidad (quantity/amount).
Which one should you use?
While pequeña cantidad is more formal and precise, un poco de is a much more common, colloquial way to express a small amount in everyday conversation.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the phrase un pelín is used to convey a tiny bit or a small amount.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because cantidad is a feminine noun, the adjective must take the feminine form pequeña. To make the phrase plural, both the adjective and the noun must be changed to their feminine plural forms: pequeñas cantidades.
Did you know?
- The colloquial expression un pelín for a small amount literally translates to 'a little hair', suggesting an amount as thin as a single strand.
- In a kitchen, the word pizca used for a pinch is also used figuratively to describe a tiny amount of a personality trait, such as una pizca de paciencia.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, using un poco can be a social strategy to soften a request or a critique, making a 'small amount' of a problem seem less severe.
Examples in context
- Una pequeña cantidad de brandy se añade a la nata montada.A small amount of brandy is added to the whipped cream.This sentence shows how to use pequeña cantidad when adding brandy to whipped cream.Tatoeba #1620012 by wallebot, translation #1619991 by Christophe
- Una pequeña cantidad de alcohol relaja la mente y el cuerpo y mejora la circulación.A small amount of alcohol will relax the mind and body and improve blood circulation.This sentence illustrates the use of pequeña cantidad when discussing the effects of alcohol on the body and mind.Tatoeba #855597 by sharin, translation #400953 by Grayster
- Necesito solo una cantidad reducida de dinero para completar la transacción.I only need a small amount of money to complete the transaction.
- Añade una pizca de sal al guiso.Add a pinch of salt to the stew.
- Puedo ofrecerte un poquito de café si quieres.I can offer you a little bit of coffee if you'd like.
- Córtame solo un pelín de queso, por favor.Please cut me just a tiny bit of cheese.
- Compré pocos libros porque estoy ahorrando.I bought few books because I'm saving money.
- Hay pocas manzanas en el mercado hoy.There are few apples in the market today.
- Solo queda una pequeña cantidad de leche en la nevera.There is only a small amount of milk left in the fridge.
Example conversation
Javier and María are cooking dinner together.
- JavierMaría, ¿cuánta sal le pongo al caldo?María, how much salt should I put in the broth?
- MaríaPonle solo una pequeña cantidad, Javier.Just put a small amount, Javier.
- JavierEstá bien, pondré una pizca.Alright, I'll put a pinch.
- MaríaPerfecto, así quedará mejor.Perfect, it will be better that way.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
