is little

USAGE SUMMARY

"is little" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe something as small or insufficient in quantity or size. Example: The amount of food in the pantry is little, so we need to go grocery shopping soon.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is little funding.

The New York Times

There is little liquidity.

The Economist

There is little consensus.

Independent

There is little elaboration.

The New York Times

There is little else.

The New York Times

There is little crime.

The Economist

It is little consolation.

The Economist

There is little furniture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is little redress.

The Economist

How is little Gates?

The New Yorker

There is little water.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is little", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being described as small or insufficient. For example, specify "There is little water left" rather than just "There is little."

Common error

Avoid using "is little" when you actually mean "is none". "Is little" implies some amount exists, whereas "is none" implies a complete absence. For example, use "There is no evidence" instead of "There is little evidence" if there's truly zero evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is little" functions primarily as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject to a description of its quantity, degree, or significance. Ludwig provides many examples showcasing the phrase being employed to indicate a small amount or extent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is little" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate a small amount, degree, or significance of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. It's important to consider context to ensure "is little" accurately reflects the intended meaning, and to avoid using it when "is none" is more appropriate. While generally neutral in register, consider if more precise synonyms could enhance impact in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is minimal

Replaces "little" with a synonym that emphasizes the very small amount or degree of something.

is scarce

Emphasizes the lack of abundance or availability, focusing on the limited supply.

is insufficient

Highlights the inadequacy of the amount or degree for a specific purpose.

is negligible

Indicates that something is so small it can be disregarded or considered unimportant.

is limited

Focuses on the restricted quantity, extent, or duration of something.

is slight

Indicates a small degree or amount, often used to describe changes or differences.

is meager

Implies that something is deficient in quantity or quality, suggesting poverty or scarcity.

is wanting

Highlights that something is lacking or deficient, often implying a need or expectation.

is unsubstantial

Stresses the lack of solidness or importance, often used in abstract contexts.

is tiny

Replaces "little" with a synonym that conveys small size.

FAQs

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

You can use "is little" to describe something that exists in a small amount or to a small degree. For example: "There "is little doubt" about his abilities", or "There "is little water" left in the bottle".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "is little"?

Alternatives to "is little" include phrases such as "is minimal", "is scarce", or "is insufficient", depending on the context.

When should I use "is little" versus "is none"?

"Is little" suggests a small quantity or degree, while "is none" indicates a complete absence. Use "is little" when something exists in a small amount, and "is none" when it doesn't exist at all. For example, "There "is little evidence"" suggests some evidence exists, while "There is no evidence" indicates that there isn't any.

Is "is little" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "is little" is generally appropriate for formal writing. However, consider whether a more precise or impactful synonym, such as "is negligible" or "is limited", might be more suitable for your context.