Definition of 'small-scale'

Learner American English

small-scale

adjective

A small-scale activity or organization is small in size and limited in extent.

...the small-scale production of farmhouse cheeses in Vermont.

small-scale in American English

(smɔlˌskeɪl ; smôlskālˌ)

adjective

drawn to a small scale and showing few details

said of a map, etc.

of limited scope; not extensive

small-scale

adjective

of limited size or scope

(of a map, model, etc) giving a relatively small representation of something, usually missing out details

Example sentences containing 'small-scale'

This could be especially difficult for those countries that retained a significant proportion of small-scale family farmers. The Times Literary Supplement (2011)The emphasis on projects to help small-scale producers go beyond mere subsistence farming is increasing. Times, Sunday Times (2013)Perhaps you yourself might like to make a small-scale observational study in the acquisition of your own first language. Siann, Gerda & Ugwuegbu, Denis C. E. Educational Psychology in a Changing World (1988)They were all relatively small-scale enterprises. Jenkins, Roy Truman (1986)He explored specific creative challenges regarding structure, technology and the constraints of small-scale music production. Christianity Today (2000)In one small-scale study, researchers took tape measures and weighing scales to the real people behind the profiles. Times, Sunday Times (2012)One answer may be sleeping pills, but a new small-scale study suggests that frequent use may raise the risk of skin cancer. Times, Sunday Times (2008)The company's critics are also concerned that there is too much emphasis on small-scale touring productions and not enough on the mainstream work. Times, Sunday Times (2013)