Translation guide
The English phrase 'small scale' describes something limited in size, extent, or scope. In Japanese, the most natural equivalent depends on whether you are talking about a map, a business, an event, or a figurative scope. The most common and versatile word is 小規模 (shōkibo), but other expressions like 縮尺 (shukushaku) for maps or ささやか (sasayaka) for modest events are also used.
Describing something that is not large in scale, such as a business, project, event, or operation.
The most common and neutral word for 'small scale'. Used for businesses, events, projects, etc. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
小規模な店を開く予定です。
I plan to open a small-scale shop.
小規模のイベントを開催します。
We will hold a small-scale event.
Simply means 'small'. More casual and general than 小規模. Often used in everyday conversation.
小さい会社で働いています。
I work at a small company.
Implies something modest, humble, or simple. Often used for personal events like parties or celebrations. Has a warm, positive nuance.
ささやかな結婚式を挙げました。
We had a small-scale wedding.
Referring to the ratio of size on a map or model to the actual size.
Specifically means 'scale' in the context of maps, drawings, or models. Often used with numbers like 1/100.
この地図の縮尺は1万分の1です。
The scale of this map is 1:10,000.
Literally 'small scale', used in cartography to mean a map covering a large area with less detail. Opposite of 大縮尺 (large scale).
小縮尺の地図では細かい道は載っていません。
Small-scale maps don't show small roads.
Describing something that is not widespread or extensive, like a problem or phenomenon.
Same as above, but used attributively. Can modify abstract nouns like 問題 (problem) or 現象 (phenomenon).
これは小規模な問題です。
This is a small-scale problem.
Means 'limited' or 'restricted'. Emphasizes that something is not widespread.
被害は限定的でした。
The damage was on a small scale.
小規模 is more formal and specifically means 'small-scale' in terms of scope or size of operation. 小さい is a general adjective for 'small' and can be used for physical size, age, etc. Use 小規模 when you want to emphasize the limited scope of a project or business.
縮尺 is only for maps, drawings, and models. Using it for a business or event would be incorrect.