1.
extremely small; minute; minimal
Describes something of the smallest possible size, degree, or amount. Used both as a noun and as a modifier with の.
極小のカメラが開発された。
An extremely small camera was developed.
この部品は極小サイズで肉眼では見えにくい。
This component is so tiny that it's hard to see with the naked eye.
被害を極小に抑えるための対策を講じた。
We took measures to keep the damage to an absolute minimum.
Can function as a noun meaning "the very smallest" or as a modifier (極小の) meaning "extremely small, minute." In mathematics, 極小 refers to a local minimum (as opposed to 極大, local maximum).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 極小サイズ — extremely small size
- 極小の粒子 — minute particles
- 被害を極小にする — to minimize damage
- 極小住宅 — micro-house; tiny dwelling
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 微小 — very small, minute (more technical/scientific)
- 最小 — smallest, minimum (superlative; the absolute least)
- 極小さい — an emphatic phrasing meaning "extremely tiny"
READING NOTE:
The reading きょくしょう is the standard on'yomi compound. The alternative reading 極小 also exists and is sometimes used interchangeably, though きょくしょう is more common in formal and technical contexts.