a little
Idioms-
A small amount, as in Will you have some more meat? Yes, just a little . [Early 1400s]
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Somewhat or rather, slightly, as in I am a little annoyed with Harry . [Late 1300s] For a synonym, see a bit .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I’ve been thinking about Musk a little bit too much lately — since almost any amount is too much — and wondering if it’s finally time to give him complete control of the sun.
From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026
Although the feelgood factor has faded a little after disappointing exits from the Europa League and Coupe de France, they remain fourth in Ligue 1 and firmly in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026
“But sellers have to tailor their expectations and do a little bit more to sell their house.”
From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026
“We were just hanging out in New York. She’s single, I gotta show her the streets a little bit,” Wilson said.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026
By the time she’d calmed down, Janet was gone, and Star realized perhaps her daughter had wanted a little less freedom and a little more guidance.
From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
