"small amount of" vs "little amount of"

Question

"small amount of" vs "little amount of"

Both "little amount of" and "small amount of" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Little amount of" is more commonly used when referring to a small quantity that is not enough or insufficient, while "small amount of" is a more general term for a small quantity without implying insufficiency.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to describe a small quantity without emphasizing inadequacy or insufficiency.

Examples:

Please add a small amount of salt to the dish.
He only needs a small amount of money to buy the book.
There is a small amount of milk left in the fridge.
She has a small amount of knowledge about the topic.
I have a small amount of free time this afternoon.

Alternatives:

modest amount of
limited quantity of
slight amount of
minor amount of
scant amount of

This phrase is used to describe a small quantity that is considered inadequate or insufficient for a particular purpose.

Examples:

I only have a little amount of sugar left for the recipe.
She has a little amount of experience in that field.
There is only a little amount of time left before the deadline.
He showed a little amount of interest in the project.
We need more than just a little amount of money to start the business.

Alternatives:

small quantity of
limited amount of
scant amount of
insufficient amount of
inadequate amount of

Answer 1

small amount of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a small quantity without implying insufficiency.

Answer 2

little amount of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially when referring to a small quantity that is not enough or insufficient.

"small amount of" vs "little amount of"

small amount of

little amount of

Related Comparisons