little list of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "little list of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a small collection or enumeration of items, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "Here's a little list of things I need to buy for the party: balloons, snacks, and drinks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Food

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

She was on Senator McCarthy's little list of subversives.

The Guardian

In a little list of variations, Holden finds "Phoebe Weatherfield Caulfield, Esq".

The New Yorker

As a spouse, you have your little list of things that you jokingly won't forgive your spouse for.

The New Yorker

Yesterday, "Wat Tyler", as the author styles himself, published a provocative little list of shadow cabinet members.

The Guardian

Here, then, is my little list of items you might spurn, along with some essential pantry and long-keeping refrigerator items you might consider.

The New York Times - Food

"I wouldn't like to sit here the day after the Test finishes and trot out a little list of lessons that we have learned".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

She had little lists of questions.

The Guardian

France, Italy and Luxembourg have little lists of national champions they think should be immune from foreign ownership.

The Economist

Every year around this time, people make their little lists of things they will do differently in the days to come.

The New York Times

At least one is "mixed media," for it has little lists of typed text on bits of paper collaged onto its surface.

The New York Times

Beloit College puts together these little lists of "college mindsets," and it answers many of the questions we just raised.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "little list of", consider the tone. It often implies informality or understatement. Choose it when you want to sound casual or self-deprecating.

Common error

Be mindful of overusing "little" to describe lists in formal writing. While it adds a touch of informality, it can undermine the seriousness or importance of the items being listed. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "short list" or "concise list" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "little list of" functions as a pre-modifier and determiner phrase. It introduces and characterizes a subsequent noun phrase, indicating that the noun phrase refers to a small or limited set of items. Ludwig AI validates that it's frequently used in common speech.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Tech

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Food

2%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "little list of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that adds an informal tone when introducing a collection of items. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, mostly in News & Media. While highly common, it should be used judiciously in formal settings, where alternatives like "short list" might be more appropriate. The phrase's function is to present a small or limited enumeration, and its informal nature makes it suitable for casual communication. Consider the audience and context when deciding whether to use "little list of" or a more formal alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short list of

Focuses on brevity, highlighting the limited number of items.

small number of items

Emphasizes the quantity involved in a straightforward manner.

brief inventory of

Implies a systematic enumeration that is concise.

compact compilation of

Highlights the act of assembling items in a condensed form.

concise rundown of

Suggests a summary or overview that is brief and to the point.

select assortment of

Emphasizes the chosen or curated nature of the items.

limited selection of

Highlights the restriction or scarcity of available choices.

handful of items

Uses a figurative expression to denote a small quantity.

modest catalog of

Suggests a simple inventory.

narrow range of

Focuses on the scope or diversity of the items being listed.

FAQs

How can I use "little list of" in a sentence?

You can use "little list of" to introduce a short, often informal, enumeration. For instance, "Here's a "little list of" things I need from the store: milk, bread, and eggs."

What phrases are similar to "little list of"?

Similar phrases include "short list of", "small collection of", or "brief rundown of", all indicating a concise compilation.

Is it appropriate to use "little list of" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "little list of" leans toward informality. In formal writing, opt for phrases like "short list of" or "concise summary of" for a more professional tone.

What is the difference between "little list of" and "long list of"?

"Little list of" implies a small, manageable number of items, often with an informal connotation. "Long list of", on the other hand, suggests a more extensive or comprehensive enumeration.