little - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
little Word Meanings
- small in size or amount
- not much; barely
- young or inexperienced
little Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
little Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlɪt.əl/
US
/ˈlɪt.əl/
little Word Etymology
The word 'little' is derived from the Old English 'littl,' which comes from Proto-Germanic *littilaz (root: 'lit' = small). Imagine a tiny dot representing something small. As it evolved, it captures the essence of being small or minor in various contexts, like a little child holding a big balloon.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip a bottle, tilt it, and move a little stream of water into my palm. I watch how a tiny amount glides, and I adjust my grip as the stream changes direction. The effort feels light but steady, a deliberate turn of control, keeping the water from spilling. In real use, I keep shaping the flow, letting a little go where I want, and holding back the rest until it matches my plan.
Real Context
Little is a versatile word in English. As an adjective, it describes something small in size or amount, for example a little dog or a little water. As an adverb, it can mean to a small degree or barely: She was little surprised. It also appears in phrases like a little by little or not a little to emphasize a larger quantity or impact. It can refer to young or inexperienced people, as in a little child, an inexperienced coder. The sense is relative and context matters; what is little to one person may be huge to another. Its etymology traces to Old English littl and Proto-Germanic *littilaz, underscoring the core idea of smallness.
Usage Reminders
- Use a little with uncountable nouns to mean a small amount (a little water, a little time).
- Avoid using little with count nouns; use few instead (a few friends).
- Not a little is an emphatic form meaning quite a lot or substantial.
- Common phrases: a little by little; a little bit.
- Be mindful of tone: a little is often positive, while little alone can sound negative.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing little with few for both countable and uncountable nouns
- Using little with countable nouns instead of few
- Thinking 'little' always carries a negative tone
- Mistaking 'not a little' as a fixed phrase without context
- Assuming 'littler' is the correct comparative; use less instead
Thinking Differences
Little emphasizes a small amount or a young/untested status; learners often confuse it with few and misplace it with count nouns.
Learning Tips
- Practice distinguishing a little vs little and a little with noncount nouns.
- Use not a little to emphasize a surprisingly large amount when appropriate.
- Remember little by little for gradual progression.
- Pair a little with water, time, or energy to express small amounts.
- Avoid using little with count nouns; prefer few instead.
- Listen for tone: a little tends to feel positive; without a, it can feel negative.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'little' correctly?
A.The little cat is so big!
B.The little dog flew in the sky.
C.She ate a little chocolate.
D.I saw a little car.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'little'?
A.Tiny
B.Huge
C.Old
D.Funny
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'little'?
A.Slow
B.Large
C.Sad
D.Angry
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where 'little' is used?
A.The party was very loud.
B.The elephant ate a huge burger.
C.She had a small portion of cake.
D.The car drove really fast.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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