a lo pequeño
Lemma Details
Translation: on a small scale; in miniature; in a small way
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This Spanish adverbial phrase combines the preposition 'a' (to, in), the neuter article 'lo' (which generalizes the adjective that follows), and 'pequeño' (small). The construction 'a lo + adjective' is a common pattern in Spanish that creates adverbial expressions indicating manner or style.
Commonality: 40%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Prefiere trabajar a lo pequeño, creando modelos detallados.
He prefers to work on a small scale, creating detailed models.
El artista reproduce famosos monumentos a lo pequeño.
The artist reproduces famous monuments in miniature.
Empezaron el negocio a lo pequeño antes de expandirse.
They started the business on a small scale before expanding.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a lo pequeño' as 'in the small way' - the 'lo' generalizes the smallness into a concept.
- Visualize a miniature model of something to remember this phrase means 'on a small scale'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is often used in contexts related to crafts, modeling, and design when describing work done on a small scale or in miniature form. It can also be used metaphorically to describe modest or small-scale approaches to projects or endeavors.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'a lo pequeño' and 'en pequeño' can both mean 'in miniature' or 'on a small scale', 'en pequeño' tends to be more specifically about physical size or scale, while 'a lo pequeño' can also refer to manner or approach.
Confused word:
El arquitecto construyó la maqueta en pequeño.
The architect built the model in miniature.
Notes: Both phrases are used in contexts of scale and size, but with subtle differences in emphasis and usage.
Mnemonic: 'A lo' focuses on the manner or style (how something is done), while 'en' focuses more on the state or condition.
Explanation: 'A lo pequeño' refers to scale or manner, while 'pequeño a pequeño' (little by little) refers to gradual progression or accumulation.
Confused word:
Pequeño a pequeño, fueron ahorrando para comprar la casa.
Little by little, they saved up to buy the house.
Notes: These phrases share the word 'pequeño' but have completely different meanings and uses.
Mnemonic: Think of 'a lo pequeño' as describing size or scale, while 'pequeño a pequeño' describes time or progression.