小さい

Etymology
&#42; → →  →  →

Ultimate derivation uncertain.

The initial chi element appears in other words with similar meanings of, such as , from , from even earlier.

Possibly related to, itself apparently derived from.

Adjective

 * 1)  small, little, tiny
 * 2) * text
 * 3)  young, little
 * 1)  young, little

Usage notes
As an adjective directly modifying a noun, may be used largely interchangeably with, the -na adjective form. In predicative use, only 小さい (chīsai) may be used: * (are wa *chīsa da) is incorrect grammar.