小差
しょ
う
さ
Meanings
1
slight difference; narrow margin
Used for small gaps in scores, times, or quantities; often appears in competitive or comparative contexts. Antonym: 大差 (large difference).
Antonyms: 大差
The election was decided by a narrow margin.
There is only a slight difference in ability between the two teams.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が小差で勝つto win by a narrow margin
The team won by a narrow margin.
- 〈人〉が小差で敗れるto lose by a narrow margin
He lost the final by a narrow margin.
- 〈人〉が小差をつけるto open up a small lead (over someone)
The athlete built a small lead in the first half.