next to nothing

USAGE SUMMARY

"next to nothing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to something that is almost negligible or insignificant in amount or value. For example, "I paid next to nothing for this item at the thrift store!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Next to nothing.

The New York Times - Sports

Entitlements "consume" next to nothing.

The Economist

Equally important, delivery costs next to nothing.

The Economist

The police have done next to nothing.

The Economist

"Next to nothing" didn't help him.

The New York Times

Money market funds pay next to nothing.

The New York Times

He knew next to nothing about Oregon.

The New York Times - Sports

A few have done next to nothing.

The New York Times

Solar energy contributes next to nothing.

The New York Times

We know next to nothing about them.

The New York Times

"Next to nothing went on in 2008".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "next to nothing" to emphasize that something is nearly absent or of very little value or quantity. It adds a touch of informality and can be more impactful than simply saying "very little".

Common error

Avoid using "next to nothing" in highly formal or technical writing. While widely understood, it can be perceived as too colloquial. Opt for more precise terms like "negligible amount" or "minimal quantity" in academic or professional contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "next to nothing" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or adjective to indicate a minimal amount, degree, or cost. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples showing its descriptive and quantifying usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "next to nothing" is a common and correct English phrase used to describe something of minimal value or quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase functions as an adverbial modifier and is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While generally considered neutral in register, it's best to avoid using it in highly formal situations, opting instead for more precise terms. To enhance your writing, use "next to nothing" to emphasize insignificance and consider alternatives like "almost nothing" or "virtually nothing" depending on the context. Remember, while effective, avoid overusing it or using it in contexts that demand elevated formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost nothing

Emphasizes the near absence of something.

virtually nothing

Highlights that something is so small it's practically non-existent.

scarcely anything

Stresses the rarity or lack of something.

hardly anything

Indicates a minimal or insignificant amount.

practically zero

Uses a numerical term to emphasize the small quantity.

a negligible amount

Formally describes a quantity so small it can be ignored.

a trivial sum

Highlights the insignificance of an amount, especially money.

a pittance

Implies a very small and inadequate amount, often of money.

barely anything at all

Emphasizes the extreme lack of something.

effectively nonexistent

States that something's presence is so minimal it doesn't matter.

FAQs

How can I use "next to nothing" in a sentence?

You can use "next to nothing" to describe something that has a very small value or quantity. For example, "I bought this dress for "almost nothing" at the flea market" or "The interest rates are so low, savings accounts are earning "virtually nothing"".

What are some alternatives to "next to nothing"?

Some alternatives to "next to nothing" include "almost nothing", "virtually nothing", "scarcely anything", or "negligible amount". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "next to nothing" appropriate for formal writing?

While "next to nothing" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. For formal writing, it's better to use phrases such as "a negligible amount" or "virtually nonexistent" for greater precision and professionalism.

What does "next to nothing" imply about the speaker's attitude?

"Next to nothing" often implies a sense of surprise or disbelief at how little something costs or how insignificant it is. It can also convey a hint of irony or humor, depending on the context.