small change

American  

noun

1. coins of small denomination.

2. someone or something insignificant or trifling.

   Those people are small change.

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small change British  

noun

1. coins, esp those of low value

2. a person or thing that is not outstanding or important

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Etymology

Origin of small change

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

This creates a small change in capacitance, just enough for the device to detect a touch.

From Science Daily

Those small changes can make a big difference when complaints are reviewed at scale.

From The Wall Street Journal

When Haidar talks to his patients about ultraprocessed foods, he encourages them to make small changes like eliminating sugary drinks and adding more fruits and vegetables.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Just a few small changes can lead to significant savings on your energy bills, and these bags give people the tools to do exactly that," she said.

From BBC

But with the oil crisis showing no quick end in sight, even small changes are welcome relief.

From Barron's