a little cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a minor reason or motivation for an action or event. Example: "There was a little cause for concern when the project deadline was moved up unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But scientists like Dr. Voyles have also found a little cause for hope: a handful of species appear to be coming back.

The New York Times - Science

If Zimbardo's analysis correctly describes situations that can corrupt the individual, then we have more than a little cause for concern.

The Guardian - Opinion

So it must give more than a little cause for concern that the Canberra government is considering introducing the very same annuity system that we're scrapping.

Independent

Ball at last gave us a little cause for optimism when he dispossessed Overath and dribbled in quickly for a shot that forced Wolter to make a sprawling save at his right-hand post.

The Guardian

However, a spirited last-day showing in the men's team foil has given the British team a little cause for optimism, particularly the potential displayed by the likes of James Davis, who played a large part as GB took world number one Italy to the wire in their last-eight contest.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

People with arthritis are sensitive to low atmospheric pressure because their bones expand a little, causing pain.

Forbes

Running in the spikes makes risk of damage, walking is kind of slow, but you may run a little, causing minor damage.

WikiHow

Maybe it is just me, but I have grown totally tired of the Cubs as a cuddly little cause.

The New York Times - Sports

He completed 14 of 31 passes for 162 yards, a touchdown and an interception, leaving little cause for statistical celebration.

The New York Times - Sports

Goalkeeper Dean Brill came to the club with a CV which gave little cause for optimism, but he has been excellent for us.

BBC

For women in New York's poorer neighborhoods, the threat that a child will be removed to foster care for little cause is a grim reality.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little cause" to introduce a reason or motivation that is not substantial or significant, but still relevant to the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a little cause" when the reason or motivation is actually significant. Choose a stronger phrase to accurately reflect the importance of the reason.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little cause" functions as a noun phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb and indicate a slight or minimal reason for an action or feeling. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a little cause" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that indicates a slight or minimal reason for something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not extremely common, as evidenced by its 'Rare' frequency rating, the phrase appears in neutral contexts, especially within news and media. To ensure accurate usage, remember that "a little cause" is best used when the reason is genuinely minor, and avoid overstating the significance of the cause. Consider alternatives like "slight reason" or "minor justification" for variety and nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight reason

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the reason, focusing on its lack of significance.

minor justification

Highlights the limited validity or importance of the reason provided.

small incentive

Focuses on the minimal motivation or encouragement provided by something.

some reason

Indicates there is a reason, without quantifying its extent.

modest impetus

Stresses a limited driving force or initial motivation.

a touch of justification

Highlights the delicacy and almost intangible aspect of reason.

a hint of motivation

Focuses on the slight inspiring component in relation to cause.

a degree of reason

It express the extent or level of justification, by quantifying a vague aspect of cause.

partial rationale

Indicates that the reason given is incomplete or only partially valid.

a shade of justification

Conveys a small and barely perceptible degree of justification.

FAQs

How can I use "a little cause" in a sentence?

You can use "a little cause" to indicate a minor reason or motivation. For example: "There was "a little cause" for celebration when the project was approved, although significant challenges remained."

What are some alternatives to "a little cause"?

Alternatives include phrases like "slight reason", "minor justification", or "small incentive", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a little cause" or "a small cause"?

Both "a little cause" and "a small cause" are acceptable. The choice depends on stylistic preference, although "a little cause" might imply a slightly less tangible or significant reason.

What's the difference between "a little cause" and "a major cause"?

"A little cause" refers to a minor or less significant reason, while "a major cause" indicates a primary or very important reason. The phrases are antonyms, differing significantly in the magnitude of the reason they describe.