In an improper fraction, the denominator is typically __________ than the numerator.

An improper fraction is defined as a fraction where the numerator is equal to or greater than the denominator. This means that in an improper fraction, the denominator is typically smaller than the numerator. For example, in the fraction 7/4, 7 (the numerator) is greater than 4 (the denominator), making it an improper fraction.

In contrast, proper fractions have numerators that are smaller than the denominators. Therefore, understanding the fundamental differences between proper and improper fractions helps clarify why the correct answer is that the denominator is smaller than the numerator in an improper fraction.