a little flexibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"a little flexibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to having an open-minded approach to a situation, or the allowance of some changes or exceptions to what has been planned or agreed upon. For example: "This project has been planned thoroughly, but it never hurts to have a little flexibility in case something unexpected happens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

I have a little flexibility because I have savings.

The New York Times

Even with airfares edging back up, deals are still plentiful for those with a little flexibility.

The New York Times

But he wanted to help those who needed a little "flexibility".

The Economist

It's not rocket science, and with a little flexibility you can usually find a bargain.

The Economist

The scheduling offers him a little flexibility because Saturday is an off day.

The New York Times - Sports

In most cases, those cards provide a little flexibility with the monthly bills.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Owing to the safety concerns over the use of fluid resuscitation in children with severe malnutrition the compromise design of the trial including low to modest volume fluid expansion and a protocol with little flexibility over additional boluses.

BMC Pediatrics

Here the hypothesis is a basket peg with little flexibility.

Harvard University

But to have a heavy workload plus little flexibility is the worst of both worlds.

The Guardian - Money

One is a technique that the authors have used in the past to estimate implicit de facto weights when the hypothesis is a basket peg with little flexibility.

Harvard University

It was a full limb, with little flexibility in it, so he walked by swinging the whole limb in front of him.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a little flexibility", consider specifying the area or aspect where flexibility is needed to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid vaguely stating the need for "a little flexibility" without specifying why or how. Providing concrete examples of situations where flexibility is beneficial will make your request more persuasive and understandable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little flexibility" functions as a noun phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it typically refers to having an open-minded approach or allowing minor adjustments. It's commonly used to express the need for some adaptability in plans or rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a little flexibility" is a commonly used phrase to express the need or allowance for some adaptability. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It functions as a noun phrase, primarily used in news, media, and business contexts. When using the phrase, specifying the area where flexibility is needed can enhance clarity. Related phrases include "a limited flexibility" and "a little leeway". As Ludwig's examples show, "a little flexibility" is useful in various situations requiring adaptability and can contribute to smoother communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited flexibility

Replaces "little" with "limited", suggesting a restriction on the amount of flexibility available.

a certain flexibility

Replaces "little" with "certain", suggesting an unspecified degree of flexibility.

a little fluidity

Substitutes "flexibility" with "fluidity", emphasizing the ease of change and adaptability.

a little latitude

Replaces "flexibility" with "latitude", indicating a greater range of freedom or allowance.

a little resiliency

Replaces "flexibility" with "resiliency", reinforcing the capacity to bounce back from challenges.

a little resilience

Replaces "flexibility" with "resilience", which focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

a little relaxation

Substitutes "flexibility" with "relaxation", emphasizing a loosening of rules or standards.

a little softening

Substitutes "flexibility" with "softening", implying a reduction in strictness or rigidity.

a little versatility

Substitutes "flexibility" with "versatility", highlighting the ability to be adaptable in different situations.

a little ability

Substitutes "flexibility" with "ability", focusing on the capacity to adapt.

FAQs

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

You can use "a little flexibility" to suggest leniency or adaptability. For example, "We appreciate "a little flexibility" with the deadline due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "a little flexibility"?

Alternatives include "a little leeway", "some room to maneuver", or "slight adjustment", depending on the context.

Is it better to ask for "a little flexibility" or "more flexibility"?

The choice depends on the specific situation. "A little flexibility" suggests a minor adjustment, while "more flexibility" implies a greater degree of adaptability is needed. Consider the extent of the changes required when making your request.

What's the difference between "a little flexibility" and "being flexible"?

"A little flexibility" refers to a specific instance or situation where some adaptability is required. "Being flexible", on the other hand, describes a general attitude or approach characterized by adaptability and willingness to adjust.