small-scale

adjective

ˈsmȯl-ˈskāl 

1

: small in scope

especially : small in output or operation

2

of a map : having a scale (such as one inch to 25 miles) that permits plotting of comparatively little detail and shows mainly large features

Examples of small-scale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a small-scale pilot of 63 fresh food items, Proxima simulated the changes to inventory flow and helped the team correct issues before launch. — Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 17 Aug. 2026

Its wines are crafted by hand, utilizing a small-scale operation and minimal machinery whenever possible. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 14 Aug. 2026

And, as a blend of both an epic and small-scale film, Currents will screen Mariano Llinás’ 330-minute biographical Life of Jorge Luis Borges. — Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 13 Aug. 2026

The talent on this list is by no means small-scale — their followings are still in the millions. — Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for small-scale

• airmail
• assail
• avail
• bewail
• blackmail
• cattail
• cocktail
• curtail
• derail
• detail
• dovetail
• email