"Make one feel small" is an idiomatic expression that describes a psychological state induced by an experience or interaction that causes a person to feel insignificant, inferior, or lacking in importance. This phrase implies a diminishment or undermining of someone's self-esteem or self-worth, resulting in feelings of inferiority, insignificance, or powerlessness.
The phrase often connotes situations where one's accomplishments, knowledge, or abilities are belittled or overshadowed by the achievements or capabilities of others. It may involve being subjected to ridicule, criticism, or humiliation, which can lead to a sense of embarrassment, inadequacy, or worthlessness.
This idiom can also describe encounters with powerful or authoritative figures, such as a superior at work or a person of high social status, when their presence or behavior overwhelms another individual, making them feel diminished or inferior by comparison.
Furthermore, the expression can depict a situation where the vastness, complexity, or immensity of a particular context or environment, such as nature or an overwhelming challenge, causes a person to feel insignificant or insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
In summary, the phrase "makes one feel small" refers to a psychological response stemming from circumstances that undermine or diminish an individual's sense of self-importance, worth, or capability, often leading to feelings of insignificance, inferiority, or powerlessness.
