2. little [determiner and pronoun] not much: There’s little hope of finding survivors. [adverb] not much: I’m afraid I’m a little late. [adjective] not large. They have a little house in the country. Grammar patterns They have very little food or water with them. I have a little cash, so let me pay. Look at the sweet little monkey! It’s a little cold in here: shall i put on the heating? How’s your father? ~He’s a little better. Thanks.

3. little Collocations  Abstact nouns that often follow little (+real) include: hope, chance, change, reason, effect, use, point, importance, news, evidence and value: there’s has been little change in the situation.  A little combines with words like while, way, and bit: A little while later, the guests started arriving.  The adjective little often combines with other adjectives: tiny little, little tiny, nice/pretty/sweet/lovely/adorable etc. little; poor little. They have a tiny little flat in Anderson town.

4. little Set phrases “just a little” Would you like some more wine? ~just a little. Thanks. As little as possible = the absolute minimum. Does he help with the housework? ~as little as possible. Little by little =gradually. Her French is improving little by little. little or no […] little or nothing = hardly anything. There’s little or no money left for advertising.