HTML <small> Tag

The HTML <small> tag is used to render text in a smaller font size than the surrounding text. It is typically used for disclaimers, legal text, or annotations. While it visually reduces the font size, the <small> tag also adds semantic meaning, indicating less importance or auxiliary information.

By default, browsers style the <small> tag with a smaller font size relative to its parent element.

Basic Syntax of HTML <small> Tag

The basic structure of the <small> tag is:

</>
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<small>Smaller Text</small>

The enclosed text is displayed in a reduced font size.

Example of Using the <small> Tag

Here’s an example where the <small> tag is used to add a disclaimer:

index.html

</>
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<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
    <body>
        <h2>Product Description</h2>
        <p>This product is available for a limited time only. <small>Terms and conditions apply.</small></p>
    </body>
</html>
Example of Using the <small> Tag

Explanation: The phrase “Terms and conditions apply” is rendered in a smaller font size to indicate its auxiliary nature.

Styling the <small> Tag with CSS

You can customize the appearance of text wrapped in the <small> tag using CSS:

index.html

</>
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<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
    <head>
        <style>
            small {
                font-size: 0.8em;
                color: gray;
                font-style: italic;
            }
        </style>
    </head>
    <body>
        <h2>Disclaimer</h2>
        <p>All prices are subject to change without notice. <small>Please contact support for details.</small></p>
    </body>
</html>
Styling the <small> Tag with CSS

Result: The text inside the <small> tag is styled with a smaller font size, gray color, and italicized for better emphasis.

Attributes of HTML <small> Tag

  • Global Attributes: The <small> tag supports all global attributes, such as id, class, and style.
  • Event Attributes: You can attach event handlers like onclick, onmouseover, etc.

These attributes enable further customization and interactivity for the <small> tag.

Practical Applications of the <small> Tag

  • Legal Text: Add disclaimers, terms, or copyright notices in a smaller font.
  • Annotations: Provide additional explanations or references in a visually distinct way.
  • Secondary Information: Display less important details, such as footnotes or metadata, in a smaller font size.
  • Dynamic Interfaces: Use the <small> tag in user interfaces to de-emphasize supplementary text.

The <small> tag is a useful semantic element for representing secondary or auxiliary information in a clean and accessible way.