From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englisha littlea littleLITTLE/NOT MUCHa small amount Fortunately I had a little time to spare. Susan speaks a little French. A little over half the class can swim. He walked on a little (=a short distance) and then turned back.a little more/less Would you like a little more milk in your coffee?a little of The city is regaining a little of its former splendour. → little
Examples from the Corpus
a little• "Do you feel sad that you're leaving?" "Just a little."• I could see that Mrs Ewing's hand was trembling a little.• "Do you speak French?" "Just a little."• "Would you like some more coffee?" "Just a little."• I know only a little bit of Korean.• Gas prices have fallen a little, but they are still much higher than last year.• I have a little cash with me, but not enough to pay for both of us.• He earns a little extra by working on weekends.• If we all used a little less paper, we'd probably save a forest or two.• If I were you I'd use a little less salt next time.• A little make-up would make her look so much more attractive.• A private room costs a little more, but it's worth it.• I think I'll try a little of the casserole.• I can understand a little of the frustration he must be feeling.• A little of the grease got on my skirt.• A little over half the class can swim.• His work has improved a little since he began the special classes.• I'm feeling a little tired, I think I'll go upstairs and have a rest.• Most people will give a little to charity if they are asked.• I'm a little upset with you right now.a littlea littleLITTLE/NOT MUCHslightly or to a small degree SYN a bit She trembled a little as she spoke. He was a little surprised at her request.a little more/better/further etc We’ll have to wait a little longer to see what happens. → littleExamples from the Corpus
a little more/better/further etc• With a little more black in her eyeliner and sediment in her voice, she could be ready to play Blanche DuBois.• Those who like to live a little more dangerously will explore discounted variable rate offers.• Among many seventeenth-century Puritans, a little more leeway about the value of good works in salvation was allowed.• Want something a little more personal?• I smoothed a little more powder on my face.• Or soon will... if it can just find a little more room.• There is a little more stress and movement around door frames than elsewhere.• After 1995, the two companies in New Jersey will have a little more than 40,000 employees. 