Translation guide
Describes something smaller than normal, expected, or standard. Japanese uses different words depending on what is undersized—people, objects, portions, or abstract things—and often prefers specific antonyms of 'big' or 'enough'.
To say that a physical object is smaller than the standard or expected size.
Common, neutral way to say 'on the small side' or 'slightly smaller than usual'. Used for clothes, portions, objects.
この靴は小さめです。
These shoes are on the small side.
小さめのサイズをください。
Please give me a smaller size.
Describes something that is smaller than the typical version of its kind, often with a positive nuance of being compact or cute. Common for fruits, dishes, furniture.
小ぶりのりんごが好きです。
I like small apples.
小ぶりなテーブルを探しています。
I'm looking for a small table.
Literally 'outside the standard'. Used for products that don't meet size specifications, like undersized fruits or parts. Technical/industrial nuance.
規格外の野菜は安いです。
Undersized vegetables are cheap.
To describe a person, animal, or plant that is smaller than typical for its age or species.
Describes a person of small build or stature. Neutral and commonly used.
彼女は小柄ですが、とても元気です。
She is small but very energetic.
Medical/technical term for stunted growth or underdevelopment. Used for children, animals, crops.
発育不良の苗は植え替えが必要です。
Undersized seedlings need to be transplanted.
Slang for a short or small person. Can be affectionate or derogatory depending on context. Use with care.
Can be rude if used with strangers or superiors.
To say that an amount, portion, or abstract thing is too small or inadequate.
'On the small side' for quantities or amounts. Often used for food portions, liquid, or countable things.
ご飯は少なめにしてください。
Please give me a small portion of rice.
Means 'insufficient' or 'shortage'. Used when something is not enough in quantity or quality.
小さめ is the most versatile for 'slightly small' objects. 小ぶり implies a compact version of something that is normally larger, often with a positive feel. 小柄 is specifically for a person's small build.
The English word 'undersized' often translates to '小さすぎる' (too small) in Japanese, but that can sound negative or critical. Use 小さめ or 小ぶり for a neutral description, and 不足 for insufficiency.
That kid is the smallest in the class.
The budget is undersized.
Expresses that something is lacking or not quite enough, often with a feeling of dissatisfaction. Used for experiences, portions, efforts.
この量では物足りない。
This amount is undersized (not satisfying).