English UsageGrammar guide
Little vs. A Little
Little and a little both quantify uncountable nouns, but they differ in viewpoint. Little often means not much or almost none, whereas a little means some, usually enough to present a small amount positively or neutrally.
Use little for “not much/almost none” and a little for “some, a small amount”; both normally go with uncountable nouns.
Key details
A Little Rolesome small amount framed positively or neutrally
Countabilityboth normally modify singular uncountable nouns
Little Rolesmall amount framed negatively or as insufficient
Choose the right form
| Choice | Use it when | Example |
|---|---|---|
| little | you mean not much or almost none | There is little time left. |
| a little | you mean some small amount | There is a little time left. |
Further guidance
Countability Boundary
For plural countable nouns, the parallel contrast is few versus a few.
Meaning Boundary
The article changes the pragmatic meaning: little emphasizes scarcity; a little asserts that some amount exists.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Little, a little, few, a few (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Meaning and countability distinction between little and a little