a little token

USAGE SUMMARY

"a little token" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing a small gift given to someone. For example: "She gave me a little token to say thank you for my help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This is a little token of my respect.

The New Yorker

"Well that was a little token to say, 'This is all you're going to get,' " he says firmly.

The Guardian

It was great because they're our fans, and we decided it was a little token of our appreciation to give him a game ball".

The New York Times

The thing that you have is most often a little token generator: every 30 or 60 seconds a new set of digits is displayed on a screen.

TechCrunch

The shrine was moved when the station was built, though they left a little token emblem on the second floor of the Radio Center.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

There's a stern presence to her delivery of songs such as "The Step And The Walk", and particularly the single "Send A Little Love Token"; and with her odd dialect twist – part-Cockney, part- European – she sounds at times like a bluesier Siouxsie.

Independent

-There's a hexagon in the middle of the screen, orbited by a little triangular token.

Vice

"It's become somewhat of a tradition for me to create something to celebrate David Bowie's birthday a little token of appreciation for someone that has inspired me so much over the years," she told them.

Vice

Now the Dept. of Park reveals, Japan's little token of peace and good will is going to be demolished.

The New Yorker

He's sorry that he lost the little token she gave him, which he kept in his pocket through all the first hard months of his apprenticeship at Dartmouth, but it doesn't matter.

The New Yorker

We might think the little token gesture of equal marriage trivial in the face of global warming, mass starvation, the banking crisis, the war of rival imperialisms – but the pope knows the truth.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a little token", ensure the context clearly indicates the item is small and serves as a symbol of something larger, such as gratitude or affection.

Common error

Avoid using "a little token" to describe something of significant monetary or practical value. The phrase implies the item's primary worth is symbolic, not material.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little token" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes something small that serves as a symbolic representation of something else, such as appreciation or remembrance. Ludwig provides examples of it being used to describe a gift.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a little token" is a noun phrase that refers to a small, symbolic gesture or object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its primary function is to convey sentiment without significant material value. While the phrase isn't exceedingly common, it's suitable for neutral and informal registers, frequently appearing in news and media contexts, as well as in wikis. When using this phrase, remember to ensure the context aligns with its symbolic nature and that you are not overstating the value of the actual object or gesture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a token gesture

Removes the word "little", shifting the emphasis to the symbolic nature of the offering rather than its size.

a tiny present

Substitutes token with a direct term for a gift.

a simple gift

Replaces "token" with a straightforward term for giving something without expecting anything in return.

a small memento

Replaces token with a more specific term for a keepsake.

a wee keepsake

Uses "wee" to emphasize small size, adding a touch of informality.

a slight offering

Emphasizes the act of giving something small.

a small acknowledgment

Highlights the act of recognizing or showing appreciation.

a minor symbol

Focuses on the symbolic representation rather than the gift itself.

a modest tribute

Conveys a sense of respect and honor, often given for achievement.

a humble gesture

Highlights the action and its intent.

FAQs

What does "a little token" mean?

The phrase "a little token" refers to a small object or gesture that serves as a symbolic expression of something, such as gratitude, affection, or remembrance. It signifies that the item's main value lies in its symbolic meaning rather than its monetary worth.

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

You might say, "I brought you "a little token" of my appreciation for your help moving." This indicates that the gift is small and symbolic of your gratitude.

What are some synonyms for "a little token"?

Similar phrases include "a small memento", "a tiny present", or "a humble gesture". The best choice depends on the specific context and the type of offering.

Is it appropriate to give "a little token" in professional settings?

Yes, it can be appropriate to give "a little token" in professional settings, such as "a small acknowledgment" of a colleague's hard work or as a thank you for a client's business. However, ensure the gift is modest and does not violate any company policies regarding gifts.