* Despite his puny size, the little dog had a heart of a lion. (This emphasizes the contrast between physical appearance and strength.)
* The villain laughed at the hero's puny attempt to stop him. (This highlights the perceived weakness of the hero's efforts.)
* The giant oak tree towered over the puny sapling beneath it. (This compares two things of different sizes, highlighting the smaller one.)
* The puny excuse he gave for his absence didn't convince anyone. (This describes something insignificant or weak in its argument.)
* The new building looked puny next to the towering skyscrapers in the city. (This emphasizes the small size of something in comparison to its surroundings.)