klein
/klaɪ̯n/
The English word 'small' is translated into German as klein. Wiktionary also lists gering and chlii.
Meaning: not large (adj)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| klein | /klaɪ̯n/ | |
| gering | /ɡəˈʁɪŋ/ | |
| chlii | Alemannic German |
The standard way to express that something is not large in physical size or stature is to use klein. If you want to describe something as extremely tiny, you might use winzig or if you are describing someone who is overly meticulous or nitpicky, you can use the term kleinlich.
Which one should you use?
While klein is the standard word for physical dimensions or a person's height, gering is used for abstract quantities, amounts or degrees, such as a small amount or low risk.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Alemannic-speaking regions, such as parts of Switzerland and Southern Germany, the dialectal variation chlii is used instead of klein.
How do you pronounce it?
/klaɪ̯n/
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Ist es zu klein?Is it too small?This sentence is useful for asking if something is too small using klein.Tatoeba #1687906 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1658056 by Spamster
- Es war zu klein.It was too small.This sentence is useful for stating that something was too small using klein.Tatoeba #8072977 by Luiaard, translation #3734335 by CK
- Er ist zu klein.He is too small.This sentence is useful for stating that a person is too small using klein.Tatoeba #10083912 by wolfgangth, translation #5152242 by kemushi69
- Das ist ein kleines Problem, aber wir werden eine Lösung finden.This is a small problem, but we will find a solution.
- Schau dir mal den kleinen Hund an! Wie süß!Take a look at the small dog! How cute!
- Eine winzige SchneeflockeA tiny snowflake
- Die geringe Anzahl an TeilnehmernThe small number of participants
- 1023 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are looking at a new car in a showroom.
- HannahIst das Auto nicht zu klein?Isn't that car too small?
- JulianFür uns ist er klein, aber praktisch.It is small for us, but practical.
- HannahIch finde ihn einfach zu klein.I simply find it too small.
- JulianLass uns noch ein größeres Modell suchen.Let's look for a larger model.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “small” translations and entries klein, gering, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gering, klein, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
