algo es pequeño
/alɡo es pekeɲo/from spelling rules
In Spanish, 'something is small' is translated as algo es pequeño.
The phrase is used to describe an object that is not large in size.
Which one should you use?
Use algo es pequeño to describe physical size, whereas algo es poco would be used to describe a small amount or quantity.
How do you pronounce it?
/alɡo es pekeɲo/
Did you know?
- The word pequeño may have its roots in ancient Celtic or Frankish-speaking tribes, potentially linking it to the linguistic history of Northern Europe rather than just the Latin roots of Spanish.
- In Spanish, algo does not always mean 'something'. When placed before an adjective, it functions as an adverb meaning 'somewhat' or 'a bit', such as in the phrase estoy algo cansado.
- Spanish speakers often use the diminutive suffix -ito to turn pequeño into pequeñito to express affection or cuteness rather than just size.
Examples in context
- Tengo un jardín pequeño.I have a small garden.
- Hemos alquilado un departamento de tamaño reducido.We have rented a small-sized apartment.
- Mira ese diminuto insecto en la pared.Look at that tiny insect on the wall.
- La tipografía de ese libro es minúscula.The typography in that book is small.
- Ayer adoptamos a un perrito chiquito.Yesterday we adopted a tiny little dog.
- Mira su manita tan pequeñita.Look at their little hand, so tiny.
- El vestido que me compré era muy corto.The dress I bought was very short.
- Tenemos una casa muy chiquita.We have a very small house.
- Si algo es pequeño, es más barato.If something is small, it is cheaper.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries algo, es, pequeño, CC BY-SA 4.0.
