kleine — meaning in English: small

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Guess the translation for little one

mit

kleine

deiner

vom

macht

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'kleine' in everyday conversations, such as describing the size of objects, people, or even emotions. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Ich habe einen kleinen Hund,' meaning 'I have a small dog,' when discussing pets at a café or market.

Synonyms & nuances

'Klein' is the direct synonym for 'kleine' but is used in a more general sense. 'Kleine,' being the feminine and diminutive form, often conveys a sense of affection or charm, making it preferable when describing something you hold dear or find particularly cute.

Culture

'Kleine' is derived from the Old High German word 'klein,' which has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*kleinaz.' This term exemplifies the German affinity for precision; describing something as 'kleine' conveys not just size but also the notion of endearment, especially when referring to children or beloved pets.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 'klein' and 'kleine'?

'Klein' is the base adjective for 'small' used for masculine and neutral nouns, while 'kleine' is the feminine form. Use 'kleine' when describing feminine nouns, like 'kleine Blume' (small flower).

Q.How do you use 'kleine' in a sentence?

'Kleine' can be used in various contexts, such as 'Ich habe eine kleine Idee' (I have a small idea) or 'Das ist eine kleine Stadt' (That is a small town). Remember to follow the noun's gender to use the correct form.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'kleine'?

A common mistake is using 'kleine' with masculine nouns instead of 'klein.' For example, saying 'Der kleine Tisch' (The small table) is correct, while 'Der kleine' would be incorrect. Ensure that you're matching the adjective to the noun's gender.

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