a little bit higher

USAGE SUMMARY

'a little bit higher' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a movement or action that should be increased in intensity. For example, 'I asked him to turn up the music a little bit higher.'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You want to stay a little bit higher".

The New York Times - Arts

"It's not just a little bit higher," Jaeggi says.

The New York Times - Magazine

"A little bit higher the mouth," he called out.

The New Yorker

"So you get a little bit higher bounce".

The New York Times - Sports

"You're doing great, c'mon, just a little bit higher".

The New York Times - Travel

"It's a little bit higher than we would have liked".

The New York Times

"But his I.Q. is a little bit higher than that.

The New Yorker

My stress levels are a little bit higher.

The New York Times

But it is true that casting standards are a little bit higher today.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Different guys, a little bit higher in the marketing department, came.

The New Yorker

It might need to be a little bit higher than your usual high street price.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a little bit higher" to describe a position, ensure the context is clear. For example, instead of saying 'Raise it a little bit higher', specify 'Raise the shelf a little bit higher.'

Common error

While "a little bit higher" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise language, such as "slightly elevated" or "marginally increased", to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little bit higher" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifically modifying comparative adjectives or adverbs. As noted by Ludwig AI, it indicates a slight increase in the degree of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a little bit higher" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that signifies a slight increase in degree or position. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across different contexts. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in highly professional or academic settings. To enhance clarity, consider specifying what is being raised "a little bit higher". While Ludwig examples show varied use, remember to maintain appropriate formality depending on the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly elevated

Replaces "a little bit" with "slightly" and "higher" with "elevated", maintaining the core meaning of a small increase.

somewhat increased

"Somewhat" and "increased" suggest a modest rise in something.

a tad more elevated

Employs "a tad" and "elevated" to indicate a slight upward shift.

marginally greater

Uses "marginally" and "greater" to convey a small increase in quantity or degree.

ever so slightly above

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the increase with "ever so slightly".

a shade above

Uses "a shade" and "above" to describe something that is just slightly superior or elevated.

just a notch up

Expresses a small increment using "just a notch up".

a smidge more

Uses "a smidge" to mean a very small amount, paired with "more" to show an increase.

a fraction taller

Specifically refers to height, indicating a minimal increase in stature.

incrementally superior

Suggests a step-by-step increase to a superior state.

FAQs

How can I use "a little bit higher" in a sentence?

You can use "a little bit higher" to indicate a slight increase in position, level, or degree. For example, "Could you please turn the volume "a little bit higher"?" or "The bar for success is set "a little bit higher" in this company."

What are some alternatives to "a little bit higher"?

Alternatives include "slightly elevated", "marginally greater", or "somewhat increased". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a little bit higher"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. "A little bit" is an adverbial phrase modifying the comparative adjective "higher". It's commonly used to indicate a small degree of increase.

When should I avoid using the phrase "a little bit higher"?

While generally acceptable, avoid using "a little bit higher" in very formal or technical writing. In those contexts, more precise and sophisticated language, such as "slightly above" or "marginally greater", may be more appropriate.