When you want to say that someone is doing something 'quietly' or 'in a small way' in Japanese, you can use the adverb 小さく (chiisaku).
Think of it as adding a 'quiet' or 'small' description to an action.
For example, if you say something '小さく', it means you are speaking in a low voice.
It's a useful word to describe how an action is performed, indicating a gentle or subdued manner.
When you're learning Japanese, you'll find that adverbs are super useful for adding detail. The word 小さく (chiisaku) is an adverb that means 'quietly' or 'in a quiet manner'. It's pretty straightforward to use!
You'll often hear it describing how someone speaks, moves, or does something in a gentle or soft way. Think of it as the opposite of doing something loudly or overtly. This is a common and practical word to add to your vocabulary as you reach an A2 level.
When you want to express that an action is done quietly or in a small way, you can use the Japanese adverb 小さく (chiisaku). It directly translates to “small” or “quietly.” This adverb is formed from the i-adjective 小さい (chiisai), meaning “small,” by changing the last character い to く. This transformation is common for i-adjectives when they are used to describe how a verb is performed.
For example, if you want to say “to speak quietly,” you would say 小さく話す (chiisaku hanasu). Another instance is “to cut into small pieces,” which becomes 小さく切る (chiisaku kiru). You can often see this used in instructions or descriptions where the size or volume of an action is important.
When we use the word 小さく (chiisaku), it literally means "small" or "little." However, when you use it with verbs like 話す (hanasu - to speak) or 言う (iu - to say), it takes on the nuance of doing something in a quiet or hushed manner. So, 小さく話す (chiisaku hanasu) means "to speak quietly," and 小さく言う (chiisaku iu) means "to say something quietly."
It's important to differentiate this from 静かに (shizukani), which also means "quietly" but refers more to a general state of silence or lack of noise. 小さく (chiisaku), in this context, specifically emphasizes the low volume of a sound or voice. For instance, if you want someone to lower their voice, you would say, 「もっと小さく話して。」 (Motto chiisaku hanashite. - Please speak more quietly.)
When using the word 「小さく」 (chiisaku), it literally means "to make something small." However, when it's used to describe how someone speaks, it means "to speak quietly" or "in a small voice." You'll often hear this in everyday conversation when someone is being considerate or trying not to disturb others. For example, if you're in a library, you might be asked to speak 「小さく」.
§ Understanding 小さく (chiisaku)
The Japanese word 小さく (chiisaku) is an adverb. It generally means 'quietly' or 'in a quiet manner.' It is derived from the adjective 小さい (chiisai), meaning 'small' or 'little.' When we change the い (i) ending of an い-adjective to く (ku), it becomes an adverb, describing how an action is performed.
- Definition
- In a quiet manner; quietly.
§ Basic Usage
小さく directly modifies verbs, indicating that an action is done quietly or softly. Think of it as answering the question 'how?'
彼女は小さく歌いました。
(Kanojo wa chiisaku utaimashita.)
She sang quietly.
Here, 小さく describes how she sang.
彼は小さくささやいた。
(Kare wa chiisaku sasayaita.)
He whispered softly.
§ Common Phrases and Contexts
小さく is often used in situations where a reduced volume or scale is implied.
- Speaking/Talking: When you want someone to speak at a lower volume.
小さく話してください。
(Chiisaku hanashite kudasai.)
Please speak quietly.
- Laughing/Crying: To describe a suppressed or quiet laugh/cry.
彼女は小さく笑った。
(Kanojo wa chiisaku waratta.)
She gave a small/quiet laugh.
- Moving/Walking: To indicate movement that is quiet or discreet.
猫は小さく歩いた。
(Neko wa chiisaku aruita.)
The cat walked quietly.
§ Distinction from 静かに (shizukani)
You might also know 静かに (shizukani), which also means 'quietly.' What's the difference?
- 小さく (chiisaku): Focuses on the *volume* or *intensity* of an action being small or low. It describes *how* something is done with reduced sound or scale.
- 静かに (shizukani): Focuses on the *state* of being quiet or silent. It often implies a lack of noise or disturbance in a broader sense. It can also be an imperative (Be quiet!).
- Example with 小さく
先生は小さく説明した。
(Sensei wa chiisaku setsumei shita.)
The teacher explained softly/in a low voice.Here, the focus is on the volume of the teacher's voice being low.
- Example with 静かに
教室は静かになった。
(Kyoushitsu wa shizukani natta.)
The classroom became quiet.This describes the overall quiet state of the classroom.
You can use both, but 小さく emphasizes the *manner* of the action, specifically its reduced volume or intensity.
§ Putting it into practice
The best way to get comfortable with 小さく is to use it. Try to describe actions you do quietly or softly throughout your day.
- Did you eat your breakfast 小さく? (Quietly, without making much noise)
- Did you close the door 小さく? (Softly, not slamming it)
Pay attention to native speakers using it in context, and you'll quickly grasp its nuances.
§ What 小さく (chiisaku) means
- Japanese Word
- 小さく (chiisaku)
- Definition
- In a quiet manner; quietly; in a small way; small.
- CEFR Level
- A2
You'll hear 小さく (chiisaku) a lot in daily Japanese conversation, especially when people are talking about making something smaller, doing something quietly, or actions that reduce something. It's a useful adverb to know because it can modify many different verbs.
§ Examples of 小さく (chiisaku) in use
Let's look at some common situations where you'll hear or use 小さく (chiisaku).
彼は小さくつぶやいた。
Translation hint: He mumbled quietly.
Here, 小さく (chiisaku) describes how he mumbled. It wasn't loud; it was quiet.
音量を小さくしてください。
Translation hint: Please turn down the volume (make it small).
This is a very common phrase. You're asking someone to reduce the volume. Think of it as making the sound 'smaller'.
部屋を小さくまとめて。
Translation hint: Please tidy up the room in a small/compact way.
In this example, 小さく (chiisaku) refers to making something compact or neat, reducing clutter.
彼は小さく頷いた。
Translation hint: He nodded subtly/slightly.
Here, the action of nodding is 'small', meaning it's subtle, not a big, obvious nod.
§ Where you actually hear this word — work, school, news
You'll encounter 小さく (chiisaku) in various settings:
At work: Your boss might tell you to make a document's font
小さく(smaller) or to keep your voice小さく(quiet) during a meeting.この文字をもう少し小さくして。
Translation hint: Make these characters a little smaller.
At school: A teacher might ask students to speak
小さく(quietly) when working in groups, or to write their names小さく(small) on a paper.廊下では小さく話してください。
Translation hint: Please speak quietly in the hallway.
In the news: You might hear about a company making a
小さく(small) but significant change, or a politician speaking小さく(quietly) to avoid drawing attention.経済は小さく成長している。
Translation hint: The economy is growing slightly/in a small way.
It's also used when talking about actions that are done subtly or without much fuss.
彼は失敗を小さくまとめた。
Translation hint: He downplayed the failure (made it small).
Paying attention to the context will help you understand whether it means 'quietly', 'slightly', or 'in a small/compact manner'. It's a very flexible word.
趣味小知识
While '小さく' can still refer to physical size (e.g., '小さくする' - 'to make something small'), its usage to mean 'quietly' or 'in a low voice' is a common and interesting semantic extension. This is likely because a 'small' voice is a 'quiet' voice.
发音指南
- Over-stressing a syllable (e.g., 'CHEE-sah-ku' or 'chee-SAH-ku').
- Confusing the short 'i' sound with a long 'ee' sound (like in 'cheese'). It's a short 'i' as in 'sit'.
- Not fully pronouncing the 'u' at the end; it can sometimes be devoiced, but for learners, it's best to pronounce it lightly.
难度评级
short
short
short
short
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
按水平分级的例句
赤ちゃんが小さく泣きました。
The baby cried quietly.
先生は小さく話しました。
The teacher spoke quietly.
彼女は小さく歌いました。
She sang quietly.
彼は小さく笑いました。
He laughed quietly.
猫は小さく鳴きました。
The cat meowed quietly.
子供たちは小さく遊びました。
The children played quietly.
犬は小さく吠えました。
The dog barked quietly.
私は小さく返事をしました。
I replied quietly.
猫が小さく鳴いた。
The cat meowed quietly.
彼女は小さく歌った。
She sang softly.
子供は小さく話した。
The child spoke in a quiet voice.
彼は小さく笑った。
He chuckled quietly.
ドアが小さく開いた。
The door opened a little.
風が葉を小さく揺らした。
The wind rustled the leaves gently.
彼女は小さく頷いた。
She nodded slightly.
彼は小さくため息をついた。
He sighed softly.
子供たちは小さく囁きながら、秘密の計画を立てていた。
The children were quietly whispering as they made secret plans.
彼女は小さくうなずき、私の提案に同意した。
She nodded quietly, agreeing to my suggestion.
会議中、彼は小さく咳払いをして注意を引いた。
During the meeting, he quietly cleared his throat to get attention.
試験官は小さく指示を与え、試験が始まった。
The examiner quietly gave instructions, and the test began.
彼は小さく笑い、皮肉なコメントを返した。
He quietly laughed and returned a sarcastic comment.
そのニュースを聞いて、彼女は小さく息をのんだ。
Hearing the news, she quietly gasped.
赤ちゃんは小さく泣き声をあげ、母親がすぐに駆けつけた。
The baby quietly cried out, and the mother immediately rushed over.
彼は小さく頷き、私の話に耳を傾けていた。
He quietly nodded, listening to my story.
彼女は小さくうなずいた。
She quietly nodded.
彼は小さくささやいた。
He whispered quietly.
子供は小さく泣いた。
The child cried softly.
その音は小さく聞こえた。
The sound was faintly audible.
彼は小さく咳をした。
He coughed discreetly.
鳥が小さく鳴いた。
A bird chirped softly.
彼女は小さくため息をついた。
She sighed softly.
彼は小さく笑った。
He chuckled softly.
常见搭配
常用短语
彼は小さく「はい」と言った。
He quietly said, "Yes."
彼女は小さく笑った。
She quietly laughed.
子供たちは小さく話していた。
The children were speaking quietly.
ドアを小さく閉めてください。
Please close the door quietly.
彼は小さく頷いた。
He nodded quietly.
小さく息を吸い込んだ。
I quietly took a breath.
彼女は小さくため息をついた。
She quietly sighed.
先生は小さくささやいた。
The teacher whispered quietly.
小さく咳をした。
I coughed quietly.
窓を小さく開けて、風を入れた。
I opened the window quietly to let the wind in.
语法模式
习语与表达
"小さくまとめる"
To summarize concisely; to keep something compact.
プレゼンテーションは小さくまとめる方が良いです。 (It's better to keep presentations concise.)
neutral"小さくする"
To make something smaller; to reduce something.
音量を小さくしてください。 (Please lower the volume.)
neutral"小さく言う"
To say quietly; to whisper.
彼は私に何か小さく言いました。 (He whispered something to me.)
neutral"小さくたたむ"
To fold compactly.
服を小さくたたんでスーツケースに入れました。 (I folded my clothes compactly and put them in the suitcase.)
neutral"小さく震える"
To tremble slightly; to shiver a little.
寒さで体が小さく震えました。 (My body trembled slightly from the cold.)
neutral"小さくうなずく"
To nod slightly.
彼女は小さくうなずいて同意を示しました。 (She nodded slightly to show her agreement.)
neutral"小さくため息をつく"
To sigh softly.
彼は小さくため息をつきました。 (He let out a soft sigh.)
neutral"小さく笑う"
To chuckle softly; to smile faintly.
彼女は彼の冗談に小さく笑いました。 (She chuckled softly at his joke.)
neutral"小さく書く"
To write in small letters.
メモを小さく書いたので読みにくいです。 (I wrote the memo in small letters, so it's hard to read.)
neutral"小さくまとまる"
To come together compactly; to be neatly arranged.
彼の話はいつも小さくまとまっている。 (His stories are always neatly arranged/concise.)
neutral句型
小さく + Verb
彼女は小さくうなずいた。(She nodded quietly.)
小さく + Adjective
小さくかわいらしい猫。(A small, cute cat.)
〜を小さくする (To make something smaller/quieter)
音を小さくしてください。(Please make the sound quieter.)
小さくても〜 (Even if it's small/quiet, ...)
小さくても、大切なことです。(Even if it's small, it's important.)
小さくまとめる (To summarize concisely/neatly)
話を小さくまとめてください。(Please summarize the story concisely.)
小さく始める (To start small)
ビジネスは小さく始めるのが良い。(It's good to start a business small.)
小さく見せる (To make oneself look small/modest)
彼は自分を小さく見せようとした。(He tried to make himself look modest.)
小さく言う (To say quietly/under one's breath)
彼女は何か小さく言った。(She said something quietly.)
如何使用
When something is happening in a quiet way, you can use 小さく (chiisaku). Think of actions that are done with reduced sound or effort. For example, if someone is speaking in a low voice, you could say 小さく話す (chiisaku hanasu - to speak quietly). If a sound gradually fades, you might say it becomes 小さくなる (chiisaku naru - to become quiet/small). It's often paired with verbs that imply an action is being performed with less intensity or volume.
A common mistake is confusing 小さく (chiisaku) with 静かに (shizukani). While both relate to quietness, 静かに means 'silently' or 'calmly' and refers to a state of being quiet. 小さく refers to an action being done in a quiet or subdued manner. For instance, if you want someone to be quiet, you'd say 静かにして (shizukani shite - Be quiet!), not 小さくして. If you want someone to lower their voice, you'd say 小さく話して (chiisaku hanashite - Speak quietly). Another mistake is using it as an adjective to describe a small object. For a small object, you would use 小さい (chiisai). 小さく is an adverb, modifying verbs or adjectives.
小贴士
Basic Meaning of 小さく
小さく (chiisaku) literally means 'small' or 'little' when used as an adverb. Think of it as doing something in a 'small way' or 'to a small extent'.
Using 小さく for Sound
When describing sound, 小さく means 'quietly' or 'softly'. It indicates a low volume. For example, 'speak quietly' would be 小さく話す (chiisaku hanasu).
Using 小さく for Movement
You can use 小さく to describe movements that are 'small' or 'subtle'. For instance, 'move a little' might be 小さく動く (chiisaku ugoku).
小さく vs. 静かに
While both can mean 'quietly', 小さく focuses on the 'smallness' or 'low volume' of the sound, whereas 静かに (shizukani) emphasizes 'silence' or 'lack of noise' in general. So, you'd tell someone to 'be quiet' with 静かにして (shizuka ni shite), not 小さくして.
Common Phrases with 小さく
Memorize common phrases. 小さく書く (chiisaku kaku) means 'write small'. 小さく歌う (chiisaku utau) means 'sing quietly'. These are very practical.
Adverbial Form -く
Remember that 小さく is the adverbial form of the i-adjective 小さい (chiisai - small). Many i-adjectives change their ending to -く to become adverbs.
Don't Confuse with 静か
Do not confuse 小さく with 静か (shizuka - quiet, peaceful), which is a na-adjective. They have similar meanings but different grammatical functions and nuances. 静かに is the adverbial form of 静か.
Listen for 小さく
As you listen to Japanese, try to identify when speakers use 小さく. This will help you get a feel for its natural usage and various contexts. Immersion is a great learning tool.
Practice with Sentences
Create your own sentences using 小さく. For example: 子供が小さく手を振った。 (Kodomo ga chiisaku te o futta.) - The child waved his hand a little (or gently).
词源
From '小さい' (chiisai, 'small') + 'く' (-ku, adverbial ending).
原始含义： The original meaning of '小さい' referred to physical smallness. The adverbial form '小さく' therefore meant 'in a small way' or 'making something small'.
Japonic文化背景
In Japanese culture, quietness and subtlety are often valued, particularly in public settings. Using words like '小さく' to describe actions done quietly or discreetly reflects this cultural appreciation for not drawing undue attention to oneself. It's a nuance that goes beyond just volume, touching on politeness and consideration.
在生活中练习
真实语境
Describing someone speaking softly
- 小さく話す (Chiisaku hanasu) - to speak quietly
- 声が小さくなる (Koe ga chiisaku naru) - one's voice becomes quiet
- 小さくささやく (Chiisaku sasayaku) - to whisper softly
Referring to something being made smaller or shrunk
- 小さくする (Chiisaku suru) - to make something smaller
- 小さくなる (Chiisaku naru) - to become smaller
- 紙を小さく折る (Kami o chiisaku oru) - to fold the paper small
Indicating a small movement or gesture
- 小さくうなずく (Chiisaku unazuku) - to nod slightly
- 小さく手を振る (Chiisaku te o furu) - to wave one's hand slightly
- 小さくため息をつく (Chiisaku tameiki o tsuku) - to sigh quietly
Describing an action done discreetly or modestly
- 小さく始める (Chiisaku hajimeru) - to start small
- 小さくガッツポーズをする (Chiisaku gattsupōzu o suru) - to make a small fist pump (discreetly)
- 小さくお礼を言う (Chiisaku orei o iu) - to quietly say thank you
When something is physically small or in a small amount (less common for the adverb, but possible with related verbs)
- 小さく刻む (Chiisaku kizamu) - to chop into small pieces
- 小さく切る (Chiisaku kiru) - to cut into small pieces
- 小さくまとめる (Chiisaku matomeru) - to put together in a small package/summarize briefly
对话开场白
"どうしてそんなに小さく話しているの？ (Dōshite sonnani chiisaku hanashite iru no?) - Why are you speaking so quietly?"
"この紙を小さく折ってもらえますか？ (Kono kami o chiisaku otte moraemasu ka?) - Could you fold this paper small for me?"
"彼は小さくうなずいて、了解したようだった。(Kare wa chiisaku unazuite, ryōkai shita yō datta.) - He nodded slightly, and seemed to understand."
"何か小さく始められることはありませんか？ (Nanika chiisaku hajimerareru koto wa arimasen ka?) - Is there anything we can start small with?"
"もう少し小さく切ってください。(Mō sukoshi chiisaku kitte kudasai.) - Please cut it a little smaller."
日记主题
今日、あなたが誰かに小さく感謝したことは何ですか？ (Kyō, anata ga dareka ni chiisaku kansha shita koto wa nan desu ka?) - What did you quietly thank someone for today?
何か新しいことを小さく始めてみたいと思いますか？具体的に何から始めますか？ (Nanika atarashii koto o chiisaku hajimete mitai to omoimasu ka? Gutai-teki ni nani kara hajimeru masu ka?) - Do you want to start something new in a small way? What specifically would you start with?
声を小さくして話す必要がある状況はどんな時ですか？ (Koe o chiisaku shite hanasu hitsuyō ga aru jōkyō wa don'na toki desu ka?) - What situations require you to speak in a quiet voice?
自分の部屋で、何かを小さくして整理したことはありますか？ (Jibun no heya de, nanika o chiisaku shite seiri shita koto wa arimasu ka?) - Have you ever made something smaller (e.g., folded, condensed) to organize your room?
あなたが誰かに「小さく」何かを頼まれた経験について書いてください。(Anata ga dareka ni 'chiisaku' nanika o tanomareta keiken ni tsuite kaite kudasai.) - Write about an experience where someone asked you to do something 'quietly' or 'in a small way'.
常见问题
10 个问题Both can mean 'quietly,' but 小さく (chiisaku) often implies doing something in a small, unobtrusive way, like speaking quietly so as not to disturb anyone. 静いに (shizuka ni) focuses more on the absence of noise or commotion, like keeping a room quiet.
Yes, absolutely! It's very common to use 小さく when talking about lowering the volume of something. For example, 音楽を小さくしてください (ongaku o chiisaku shite kudasai - Please turn the music down).
Not inherently. If you say 小さくしてください (chiisaku shite kudasai - Please be quiet/do it quietly), it's generally polite enough. However, adding すみませんが (sumimasen ga - excuse me, but) at the beginning can make it even more deferential.
It functions as an adverb, so it modifies a verb. Think of it as 'doing something in a small/quiet way.'
Examples:
彼は小さく話しました。 (Kare wa chiisaku hanashimashita.) - He spoke quietly.
子どもは小さく歩いています。 (Kodomo wa chiisaku aruiteimasu.) - The child is walking quietly/softly.
Yes, it does! 小さい (chiisai) means 'small' (adjective). When you change an -i adjective to an adverb, you replace the -i with -ku. So, 小さい becomes 小さく, meaning 'in a small way' or, in this context, 'quietly/softly'.
That's a great question! While its root is 'small,' 小さく primarily implies 'in a small manner' or 'quietly' when it acts as an adverb. If you want to say something *becomes* smaller, you'd typically use verbs like 小さくなる (chiisaku naru - to become small). For example, 雪が小さくなった。 (Yuki ga chiisaku natta. - The snow got smaller/thinner).
For situations that demand high formality, especially regarding silence or discretion, you might encounter phrases like 静穏に (seisuku ni - with silence/quietude) or 口軽に (kuchigenka ni - discreetly, speaking little), though these are less common in everyday conversation. 小さく is quite versatile for general 'quietly' contexts.
No, 小さく is an adverb, so it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It cannot directly modify a noun. For nouns, you'd use the adjective 小さい (chiisai). For example, 小さい犬 (chiisai inu - a small dog).
While not a deep idiom, a common use is with actions like speaking or moving. For instance, if you want someone to lower their voice, you'll often hear 小さくして (chiisaku shite - do it quietly/lower it) or 小さく言ってください (chiisaku itte kudasai - please speak quietly).
It's pronounced 'chee-sah-koo'.
The 'chi' is like the 'chi' in 'chip'.
The 'sa' is like 'sa' in 'father' but shorter.
The 'koo' is like 'coo' in 'cool'.
自我测试 78 个问题
子どもは（___）寝ています。
「小さく」は「ひっそりと、静かに」という意味で、眠っている子どもの様子を表すのに適しています。
彼女は（___）歌を歌いました。
「小さく歌う」は「声をひそめて歌う」という意味で、静かな状況で歌う様子を表します。
ドアを（___）開けてください。
「小さく開ける」は「音を立てずに少しだけ開ける」という意味で、慎重な行動を表します。
彼は（___）部屋に入ってきました。
「小さく入る」は「音を立てずに、ひっそりと入る」という意味で、周りに気づかれないようにする様子を表します。
先生は（___）話しました。
「小さく話す」は「声をひそめて話す」という意味で、秘密の話や、周りに聞かれたくない話をする様子を表します。
猫が（___）歩いています。
「小さく歩く」は「音を立てずに、そっと歩く」という意味で、猫の静かな動きを表すのに適しています。
Someone is asking you to speak in a certain way.
A cat made a sound.
He reacted to something.
Read this aloud:
小さくお願いします。
Focus: chi-sa-ku o-ne-gai shi-masu
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
もう少し小さく話してください。
Focus: mō su-ko-shi chi-sa-ku ha-na-shi-te ku-da-sai
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
小さく歌いました。
Focus: chi-sa-ku u-ta-i-ma-shi-ta
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
The correct order is '彼女は' (she) + '小さく' (quietly) + '話します' (speaks).
The correct order is '彼は' (he) + '小さく' (quietly) + '歌います' (sings).
The correct order is '私は' (I) + '小さく' (quietly/small) + '書きました' (wrote).
Write a sentence describing someone speaking softly in a library using 「小さく」.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼女は図書館で小さく話しました。
Describe a scenario where you'd want someone to move 「小さく」 so as not to disturb others.
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Sample answer
赤ちゃんが寝ているので、小さく動いてください。
Imagine telling a child to play 「小さく」 in a public place. Write that instruction.
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Sample answer
公園で、子供は小さく遊びました。
What did Sato-san do in the meeting?
Read this passage:
佐藤さんは会議で小さく意見を言いました。みんなが彼の意見を聞くために、静かになりました。
What did Sato-san do in the meeting?
「小さく意見を言いました」 means 'expressed his opinion quietly'.
「小さく意見を言いました」 means 'expressed his opinion quietly'.
How did the cat meow?
Read this passage:
猫は小さく鳴きました。ドアのそばで、誰かを待っているようでした。
How did the cat meow?
「小さく鳴きました」 means 'meowed quietly'.
「小さく鳴きました」 means 'meowed quietly'.
How did he sing at the party?
Read this passage:
パーティーで、彼は小さく歌いました。しかし、その歌はとても美しかったです。
How did he sing at the party?
「小さく歌いました」 means 'sang quietly'.
「小さく歌いました」 means 'sang quietly'.
The basic sentence structure in Japanese is Subject-Object-Verb. '彼女は' (she) is the subject, '小さく' (quietly) is an adverb modifying the verb '話しました' (spoke).
'彼は' (he) is the subject, '小さく' (small/quietly) describes how he wrote, and '書きました' (wrote) is the verb.
'子どもは' (the child) is the subject, '小さく' (quietly/softly) describes the manner of singing, and '歌いました' (sang) is the verb.
彼女はいつも___、でもとても速く話します。
文脈から、彼女が静かに話すが、速いという対比が適切です。'小さく' は 'quietly' の意味で使われます。
図書館では、みんなが___本を読んでいました。
図書館という場所柄、静かに本を読むのが自然です。
赤ちゃんが寝ているので、___話してください。
赤ちゃんが寝ている状況では、声を小さくして話すのが適切です。
会議中、彼は___意見を述べた。
会議中に控えめに意見を述べる様子を表すのに「静かに」が適切です。
夜遅く、通りは___なった。
夜遅くには、通りが静かになるのが一般的です。
彼は___、ドアを閉めた。
音を立てずにドアを閉める状況で「静かに」が適切です。
Choose the sentence where 「小さく」 is used correctly:
「小さく」 often implies a quiet or subtle action, like leaving a room without making much noise.
Which of these actions would most likely involve 「小さく」?
「小さく」 emphasizes a quiet or subdued manner, which aligns with speaking quietly.
Select the best English translation for 「小さく頷く」:
「小さく」 implies a small, subtle action. So, "to nod slightly" is the best fit.
「彼女は小さく挨拶した。」means she greeted loudly.
「小さく挨拶した」 means she greeted quietly or subtly, not loudly.
You can use 「小さく」 to describe someone speaking in a low voice.
「小さく」 refers to a quiet manner, which includes speaking in a low voice.
「彼は小さく踊った。」 means he danced with big, energetic movements.
「小さく踊った」 implies dancing with small, subtle movements, not big and energetic ones.
Imagine you are in a library and someone is being too loud. Write a short sentence advising them to speak quietly, using 小さく (chiisaku).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
図書館ですから、小さく話してください。 (Toshokan desu kara, chiisaku hanashite kudasai.) - Since it's a library, please speak quietly.
You are at a movie theater, and your friend is talking loudly. Write a sentence telling them to talk more quietly, using 小さく (chiisaku).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
映画館だから、もっと小さく話そうよ。 (Eigakan dakara, motto chiisaku hanasou yo.) - It's a movie theater, so let's talk more quietly.
Describe a situation where someone needs to do something "quietly" and use 小さく (chiisaku) in your sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
赤ちゃんが寝ているので、小さくドアを開けました。 (Akachan ga nete iru node, chiisaku doa o akemashita.) - Since the baby was sleeping, I opened the door quietly.
Why did the mother sing quietly?
Read this passage:
子供が寝ているので、母親は小さく歌を歌いました。そして、彼はぐっすり眠りました。 (Kodomo ga nete iru node, hahaoya wa chiisaku uta o utaimashita. Soshite, kare wa gussuri nemurimashita.)
Why did the mother sing quietly?
The passage states 「子供が寝ているので、母親は小さく歌を歌いました。」 which means 'Because the child was sleeping, the mother sang quietly.'
The passage states 「子供が寝ているので、母親は小さく歌を歌いました。」 which means 'Because the child was sleeping, the mother sang quietly.'
What does the phrase 「小さくメモを取りました」 imply about the students' note-taking?
Read this passage:
先生が説明している間、生徒たちは小さくメモを取りました。彼らは集中していました。 (Sensei ga setsumei shite iru aida, seito-tachi wa chiisaku memo o torimashita. Karera wa shuchuu shite imashita.)
What does the phrase 「小さくメモを取りました」 imply about the students' note-taking?
「小さく」 in this context refers to doing something in a quiet manner. So, they took notes quietly so as not to disturb the class.
「小さく」 in this context refers to doing something in a quiet manner. So, they took notes quietly so as not to disturb the class.
What is the reason for needing to speak quietly?
Read this passage:
隣の部屋で会議が行われているので、私たちは小さく話す必要があります。 (Tonari no heya de kaigi ga okonawarete iru node, watashitachi wa chiisaku hanasu hitsuyou ga arimasu.)
What is the reason for needing to speak quietly?
The passage clearly states 「隣の部屋で会議が行われているので」 (tonari no heya de kaigi ga okonawarete iru node), which means 'because a meeting is happening in the next room.'
The passage clearly states 「隣の部屋で会議が行われているので」 (tonari no heya de kaigi ga okonawarete iru node), which means 'because a meeting is happening in the next room.'
This sentence means 'I saw him nod quietly.' The particles connect the words in the correct order.
This sentence means 'She sighed quietly.' The adverb 小さく modifies the verb ため息をついた (to sigh).
This sentence means 'The child is waving their hand quietly/gently.' 小さく describes the manner of waving.
You are at a library and someone is making a lot of noise. Write a short note (2-3 sentences) to them, politely asking them to be quieter, using "小さく".
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
図書館では、皆さんが集中して勉強しています。おしゃべりの声を小さくしていただけませんか。ご協力ありがとうございます。
Describe a time when you needed to speak "quietly" or "softly" to avoid disturbing someone or to convey a secret. Use "小さく" in your description (2-3 sentences).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
会議中、隣の同僚に秘密を伝えるため、小さくささやきました。他の人に内容が聞こえないように気をつけました。
Imagine you are giving instructions to a child about how to enter a room where someone is sleeping. Write two sentences, one of which uses "小さく" to tell them to do something quietly.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
お母さんが寝ているから、部屋に入る時はドアを小さく開けてね。足音も立てないように気をつけて。
この男性がドアを「小さく開けた」理由として最も適切なものは何ですか？
Read this passage:
彼は夜中に帰宅し、家族を起こさないように、ドアを小さく開けてそっと部屋に入った。電気もつけず、静かに着替えを済ませた。翌朝、家族は彼が帰ってきたことに全く気づかなかった。
この男性がドアを「小さく開けた」理由として最も適切なものは何ですか？
文章から、彼が家族を起こさないように行動していたことがわかります。
文章から、彼が家族を起こさないように行動していたことがわかります。
「小さく独り言を言っていた」という表現から、その生徒の声の大きさについて何がわかりますか？
Read this passage:
隣の席の生徒が、試験中に小さく独り言を言っていた。その声は非常に小さく、何を言っているのかほとんど聞き取れなかった。先生も気づかないほどだった。
「小さく独り言を言っていた」という表現から、その生徒の声の大きさについて何がわかりますか？
「小さく」という言葉と、「ほとんど聞き取れなかった」「先生も気づかないほどだった」という記述から、声が非常に小さかったことがわかります。
「小さく」という言葉と、「ほとんど聞き取れなかった」「先生も気づかないほどだった」という記述から、声が非常に小さかったことがわかります。
なぜ彼女は着信音を「小さくした」のですか？
Read this passage:
彼女は会議の途中で、携帯電話の着信音を小さくした。重要な発表の邪魔をしたくなかったからだ。すぐにマナーモードに切り替えた。
なぜ彼女は着信音を「小さくした」のですか？
「重要な発表の邪魔をしたくなかったからだ」という記述が直接的な理由です。
「重要な発表の邪魔をしたくなかったからだ」という記述が直接的な理由です。
「小さく囁いた」は「quietly whispered」という意味になります。
「小さく頷く」は「to nod slightly/quietly」という意味で、控えめな同意を表します。
「小さく笑い声を漏らした」は「let out a quiet laugh」となり、控えめな笑い声を示します。
彼女はいつも___、そっと部屋に入ってくる。
「小さく」は「ひそかに、こっそりと」という意味で、部屋にそっと入る様子を表すのに適切です。「静かに」も似ていますが、行動の控えめさをより強調します。
彼は、試験中に___ささやき声で友達に答えを尋ねた。
「小さくささやき声で」は、誰にも聞こえないように、控えめな声で話す状況を表します。試験中の不正行為のニュアンスを含みます。
会議中、彼女は___意見を述べたが、誰も気づかなかった。
「小さく意見を述べた」は、遠慮がちに、あるいは控えめに意見を言った状況を表します。結果として誰も気づかなかったという状況と合致します。
子供たちは、両親に気づかれないように___ドアを開けた。
「小さくドアを開けた」は、音を立てずに、そっとドアを開ける様子を描写します。両親に気づかれないようにという意図と一致します。
彼は自分の失敗を___反省し、二度と繰り返さないと誓った。
「小さく反省し」は、心の中でひっそりと、あるいは人目をはばかるように反省する様子を表します。「ひそかに」も似た意味ですが、「小さく」は行動の控えめさをより強調します。
泥棒は、警察に___姿を消した。
「小さく姿を消した」は、人目につかないように、こっそりと立ち去る様子を描写します。警察から逃れる泥棒の行動に合致します。
The child whispered something.
She nodded in a particular way.
He reacted with a subtle sound.
Read this aloud:
「小さく息を吸って、ゆっくり吐き出してください。」
Focus: 小さく (chiisaku), 吸って (sutte), 吐き出して (hakidashite)
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
「会議中なので、小さく話してください。」
Focus: 会議中 (kaigichuu), 小さく (chiisaku), 話してください (hanashite kudasai)
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
「舞台裏では、俳優たちが小さくセリフを確認していた。」
Focus: 舞台裏 (butaiura), 俳優たち (haiyuutachi), 小さく (chiisaku), セリフを確認していた (serifu o kakunin shiteita)
你说的：
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/ 78 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Meaning of 小さく
小さく (chiisaku) literally means 'small' or 'little' when used as an adverb. Think of it as doing something in a 'small way' or 'to a small extent'.
Using 小さく for Sound
When describing sound, 小さく means 'quietly' or 'softly'. It indicates a low volume. For example, 'speak quietly' would be 小さく話す (chiisaku hanasu).
Using 小さく for Movement
You can use 小さく to describe movements that are 'small' or 'subtle'. For instance, 'move a little' might be 小さく動く (chiisaku ugoku).
小さく vs. 静かに
While both can mean 'quietly', 小さく focuses on the 'smallness' or 'low volume' of the sound, whereas 静かに (shizukani) emphasizes 'silence' or 'lack of noise' in general. So, you'd tell someone to 'be quiet' with 静かにして (shizuka ni shite), not 小さくして.
相关内容
更多music词汇
リズム
A2A strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.
歌詞
A2The words of a song.
調子
A2Musical key or tune; also general condition or mood.
ライブ
A2A performance given directly to an audience.
作詞
A2The act of writing lyrics for a song.
ハーモニー
A2The combination of simultaneously sounded musical notes.
音量
A2The volume or loudness of a sound.
指揮する
A2To conduct (an orchestra, choir).
独奏
A2A musical performance by a single instrumentalist.
指揮者
A2A person who directs an orchestra or choir.
