Definition & Meaning of "A small world"

A small world

/ɪt ɪz sˈʌtʃ ɐ smˈɔːl wˈɜːld/

a small world

PHRASE

used to show one's surprise when meeting someone in a place one did not expect, or when one becomes aware of an unexpected relation between people

What is the origin of the idiom "it is a small world" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the idiom "it is a small world" is not precisely documented, but it has been in use for many years and is widely recognized as a well-established expression in the English language. It is used to express surprise or amazement when people discover unexpected connections or shared experiences.