it takes a little while

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence 'it takes a little while' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action that requires some time to accomplish. Example sentence: Getting my driver's license took a little while, but I'm glad I finally got it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It takes a little while for the movie to reveal its range of references, but when they appear the construction and its import seem all the more wondrous.

The New Yorker

It takes a little while to get the facts.

The Washington Post

It takes a little while to get used to her.

The Guardian - Books

Not make a quick statement... It takes a little while to get the facts.

The Guardian

"It takes a little while to get back into your rhythm and top form," Flower said.

The Guardian - Sport

He arrives and it takes a little while for his ideas to be accepted.

The Guardian - Sport

And you know, it takes a little while for me to get rolling".

The New York Times

GR Sometimes, it takes a little while for people to adjust to their new home.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It took a little while.

Independent

It took a little while to get it done.

The New Yorker

Trump said, "Ladies and gentlemen, it took a little while.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it takes a little while", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or process requires the time. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the reader understands what you're referring to.

Common error

Avoid using "it takes a little while" without specifying what "it" refers to. Be specific about the process or task that requires time to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it takes a little while" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating that a process or action requires a certain duration to complete. It often prefaces an explanation or provides context for why something is not immediate, as Ludwig's examples confirm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Sport

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science & Research

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it takes a little while" is a common and versatile phrase used to indicate that something requires time. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from alternatives. The phrase's function is primarily to manage expectations and provide context, often softening potential impatience. The provided examples from Ludwig showcase its use across news media, sports, and general conversation, solidifying its place as a widely understood and accepted expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it takes a while

Shortens the phrase by omitting "little".

it takes some time

Removes "a little", suggesting a slightly longer duration.

it takes a short time

Replaces "little while" with "short time", indicating the same meaning.

it needs a little while

Substitutes "takes" for "needs" while maintaining the same meaning.

it needs a bit of time

Uses "needs" instead of "takes", and "bit of time" instead of "little while".

it requires some time

Changes the verb and uses a more formal word choice.

it calls for a little while

Uses "calls for" instead of "takes", providing a slightly more formal tone.

it demands a little while

Uses "demands" instead of "takes", emphasizing necessity.

some time is needed

Rephrases the sentence in passive voice.

it's a gradual process

Shifts the focus to the process being gradual rather than the time it requires.

FAQs

How can I use "it takes a little while" in a sentence?

You can use "it takes a little while" to describe something that needs time to be completed or understood. For example, "It takes a little while to adjust to a new work environment".

What are some alternatives to saying "it takes a little while"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it requires some time", "it needs a bit of time", or "it takes some time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it takes a little while" formal or informal?

"It takes a little while" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. More formal alternatives might include "it requires some time".

What's the difference between "it takes a little while" and "it takes a long time"?

"It takes a little while" indicates a shorter duration compared to "it takes a long time". The former suggests a relatively brief period is needed, whereas the latter implies a more extended timeframe.