American English
/ˈlɪ.ɾl̩/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Not much of something; often less than is needed or expected.
In American English, “little” is commonly pronounced /ˈlɪ.ɾl̩/. The middle sound is a quick tap, so it may sound a little like a fast “d.”
Not much of something; often less than is needed or expected.
We have little time before the train leaves.
There was little hope of finding the keys.
Little usually suggests “not enough.” Use “a little” when you mean some.
little time · little money · little hope · little interest
little + uncountable noun
there is/was + little + uncountable noun
Some of something, but not much.
I need a little water.
Add a little of the sauce to the rice.
a little + uncountable noun
a little of + noun/pronoun
Small in size; not big.
They live in a little house near the lake.
The little dog followed me home.
With people, little can mean young or show affection; it does not always mean physically small.
little house · little dog · little things · little box
a little + singular noun
little + plural noun
Young or younger than another person, especially in a family.
My little sister starts school in September.
His little brother is only six.
little brother · little sister · little kid · little one
little brother/sister
my/your + little + brother/sister
gradually, in small steps
Little by little, her English improved.
a small amount; slightly
I’m a little bit nervous.
after a short time; soon
I’ll call you in a little while.
Little has irregular comparison forms: less and least. Use them for smaller amounts.