Little vs A Little vs Small: What’s the Difference Between Them?

If you’re looking for all the tips and tricks for how to use a little, little or small, then you’re certainly in the right place. Keep on reading for all the details you need to know for how to use these confusing words in style!

Little vs A little vs Small

A little, little, and small are similar in that they refer to someone of something that is not big or not a lot. However, there are some key differences in when they’re used.

How to Use Little

There are a number of ways that a little/little can be used.

A Little

Describes a small or unimportant amount of something when used with the article “a” (a little). For example:

There’s a little bit of dirt on the floor.

Little (young)

Describe somebody who is young. For example:

The little kids next door love to play outside.

Little (lacking)

Means lacking or missing something. For example:

You’ll have little need for that jacket today. It’s supposed to be 25 degrees.

How to Use Small

Used to describe the size of something. Can be used as a comparative adjective (smaller).

Examples: 

• These airplane seats are so small.
• She is quite small for her age.
• These shoes are too small for me now.
• It can also be used as a comparative adjective (smaller).
• I moved to a smaller house.

Little vs A Little vs Small: Practice

1. I have _____ use for this kayak now that I moved. Do you want it?
2. Tom’s shoes are too _____. He’s growing so fast.
3. When I was _____, I used to love collecting baseball cards.
4. I need _____ more time, please.
5. My apartment is too _____ now that my girlfriend moved in.
6. It’s a _____ dusty in here. I’m starting to sneeze.
7. My new place is _____ but nicer.
8. Can you please get me _____ bit of water?

Answers

1. little
2. small
3. little
4. a little
5. small
6. little
7. smaller
8. a little

More Confusing English Words

There are lots of other confusing words in English to be aware of. Here are just a few of them:

all ready/already

averse/adverse

effect/affect

pour/poor/pore

Want to Find Out More?

You can find hundreds of confusing English words and word pairs in this book: Most Confusing Words in English Explained. Pick up a copy and ace your next TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS exam! Find out everything you need to know about it right here:

Join the Conversation

Do you have any tips or tricks for how to keep these words straight? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Last update on 2022-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API