a little
The phrase "a little" is versatile, used to indicate a small amount or slight degree in various contexts.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
A2General
(common)To a small extent or degree.
Example
- I'm a little tired after the long journey.
- This soup needs a little more salt.
A2Quantity
(common)A small amount of something.
Example
- I only need a little sugar for my coffee.
- She poured a little milk into her tea.
B1Emphasis
(informal, UK)Used to emphasize a small amount or slight degree, sometimes ironically.
Example
- He was a little upset about the news.
- That was a little more difficult than I expected.
B1Idiomatic Expressions
(common)Part of phrases indicating that a small amount is sufficient or referring to a minor gift or treat.
Example
- A little goes a long way.
- I brought you a little something.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "a little":
a little bita bita tadnot a littlea fewnot so muchsmall changebit of stuff