SMALL-TIME Synonyms: 74 Similar and Opposite Words

small-time

adjective

Definition of small-time

as in petty

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of small-time No actress this century has been able to match Hathaway's slinky, shifty take on small-time thief Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2026 As a young man, Brun was pulled deep into this scene, becoming a small-time dealer and user. — Guthrie Scrimgeour, Rolling Stone, 2 Aug. 2026 Bakley was 23 years younger than Blake, a small-time hustler who sold dirty photos of herself to old men and ran a lonely hearts scam. — Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026 Magdalen, living with her mother’s relative, Captain Horatio Wragge, a small-time crook, becomes a successful actress. — Literary Hub, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for small-time

Recent Examples of Synonyms for small-time

Adjective

The debut show from the pact, about the disappearance of Spanish petty criminal El Nani, remains in development, Corral confirmed.

— Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2026
Before the arrival of the Sisters of Mary Morning Star, the death row inmates had been plagued by petty infighting.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of petty

Adjective

But there is an enormous difference between asking your allies to shoulder more responsibility and telling them that your promise to defend them might be worthless.

— Fareed Zakaria, Washington Post, 23 Oct. 2026
Mild unease gave way to statements about being worthless, unloved, and a failure.

— Shae Lake, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of worthless

Adjective

So, yes, Mercedes is not afraid to nickel-and-dime anyone with their compact sedan.

— Adam Ismail, The Drive, 11 June 2026
Full-service hotels like Marriott and InterContinental still offer a more inclusive experience, and international airlines like Qatar Airways don't nickel-and-dime you for luggage.

— Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 21 Oct. 2025

Definition of nickel-and-dime

Adjective

The cream top descended from the Einspänner, an espresso drink that’s named for a one-horse carriage.

— Elizabeth Lopatto, The Verge, 18 Oct. 2026
And while this has now become a one-horse race, with that proposal carrying the day heading into a May 28 vote at the league’s next Board of Governors meeting, there are still more discussions — and possible changes — to come.

— Sam Amick, New York Times, 5 May 2026

Definition of one-horse

Browse Nearby Words

small talk

small-time

small-timer

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Style

“Small-time.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/small-time. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of small-time

adjective

Example Sentences

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