small
mikros describes what is limited in size, amount, duration, standing, or comparative extent.
The term most often marks a limited interval or extent, and it also describes small physical size or amount, lower comparative standing, and those called “little ones” in specific sayings.
Senses in use
-
A limited interval or extent · dominant
Accusative singular forms occur in clauses of waiting or brief continuance: in John 16:16 the APB renders the repeated interval “A little while,” while Hebrews 10:37 places it before the coming one’s arrival. In Mark 14:70 and Revelation 6:11, the APB likewise presents a short intervening period before a later event.
-
Smaller in comparison or social scope · common
Comparative and contrasted forms mark persons or groups in relation to greater ones: Acts 26:22 speaks of testimony to “small and great,” and Luke 9:48 identifies the one who is smallest among all. Revelation 13:16 includes “the small and the great” among the groups compelled to receive a mark.
-
Small physical size, amount, or distance · common
The term qualifies concrete or measurable things: 1 Corinthians 5:6 uses a nominative singular feminine form with leaven affecting a whole lump, and James 3:5 calls the tongue a small member. Luke 19:3 applies a nominative singular masculine form to a man’s stature, while Mark 4:31 and Matthew 13:32 compare a seed with all other seeds.
-
People designated as “little ones” · occasional
Genitive plural forms identify particular people in warnings and instructions: Luke 17:2 warns against causing one of these little ones to stumble, and Matthew 10:42 speaks of giving one of them a cup of cold water. Matthew 18:10 and Matthew 18:14 respectively forbid despising one of these little ones and describe the Father’s will that none should perish.
In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB variously presents the term with “little,” “small,” “smaller,” “least,” and “a little while.” These renderings reflect the surrounding clauses rather than a fixed English equivalent in every verse.