The phrase "by very little" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the concept of a minimal or insignificant amount or margin. It refers to situations where the difference or gap between two things is extremely small, almost negligible.
When used to describe numerical values or measurements, "by very little" implies that the discrepancy is so minute that it holds little to no practical significance. For instance, if a team wins a sporting event "by very little," it suggests that their victory was by an extremely narrow margin or a minuscule number of points, making it nearly indistinguishable from a tie.
In a broader context, this phrase can also pertain to differences in quality, quantity, and achievement. For instance, if two individuals are competing for a job, and one of them is chosen "by very little," it suggests that the decision was ultimately based on minor details or subjective preferences.
The phrase "by very little" often implies that the outcome could have easily gone the other way, had even the tiniest factor been different. It conveys a sense of uncertainty or precariousness, as decisions or results in these situations are often considered as teetering on the edge or balancing on a fine line.
Overall, "by very little" denotes a small and often insignificant distinction between things, whether it be in numbers, achievements, or qualities. It emphasizes the narrowness of the gap and the precarity of the outcome, highlighting the delicate nature of the situation at hand.
