It’s a small world

Meaning

"It's a small world" is an idiom that means the world seems to be getting smaller as we connect with people from different places who share similar experiences or interests. It suggests that even though we are physically apart, we feel closer because we have something in common.

Usage

• "I never thought I'd meet someone else who shares my love for jazz music, but then I went to the Jazz Festival and it felt like a whole new world had opened up."
• "When I was traveling through Europe, I met a fellow backpacker who was also from my hometown. It was crazy how small our world is when you consider all the millions of people out there."
• "I'm so glad to have found this group of people who understand what it's like to be a parent. It really makes me feel like I'm not alone in this journey."
• "I never thought I'd meet someone else who was struggling with anxiety, but then I joined a support group and it was like a weight had been lifted off of me."
• "It's amazing how technology has brought us closer together, even though we're physically miles apart. I've made friends from all over the world through social media." The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. For example, it can be used to describe a surprising coincidence or connection that happens by chance.

Roots and History

The idiom has been in use since at least the 18th century. The first recorded use of the phrase "it's a small world" was in a collection of stories by French author Jean-Jacques Rousseau in 176- However, it didn't become a popular idiom until the 20th century. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved to include not only coincidental connections but also the idea that we are all interconnected through shared experiences and interests. The phrase has also been adapted into songs and movies, including "It's a Small World After All" from Disney's Mary Poppins.

Synonyms in English

• Globalization
• Interconnectedness
• Networking
• Collaboration
• Community building

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Red social
• French: Réseau social
• German: Soziales Netzwerk
• Italian: Rete sociale
• Japanese: ネットワーク (Network)

Similar Idioms

• take it up/down a notch

• all the rage

• blind impulse