The phrase "the small screen" is a colloquial expression commonly used to refer to television. It is a metaphorical term that emerged from the historical context of televisions having smaller screens compared to larger movie theater screens. The phrase is used to distinguish television as a medium from the big screen, i.e., movies shown in theaters.
In contemporary usage, "the small screen" refers to television programs, series, or broadcasts that are specifically designed for home viewing on television sets or other portable devices like laptops, tablets, or smartphones. It encompasses a wide range of genres, including dramas, sitcoms, documentaries, news programs, and reality shows. The term describes the viewing experience of watching television content within the confines of a smaller screen, often in domestic settings.
"The small screen" is associated with the characteristics and peculiarities of television as a medium. These include its accessibility to mass audiences, the habit-forming nature of serialized content, the ability to provide both entertainment and educational programming, and the commercial aspect of advertisements featured during broadcasts. The term can also denote the domestic nature of television consumption, as watching TV typically occurs in homes rather than in public spaces.
Overall, "the small screen" is a metaphorical expression that epitomizes television, encompassing its content, format, and the medium itself.
