The phrase "ever so little" is commonly used to describe a small amount of something. The spelling of this phrase follows the rules of English phonetics. "Ever" is pronounced as /ˈɛvər/, with the stress on the first syllable. "So" is pronounced as /soʊ/, with a long vowel sound in the second syllable. "Little" is pronounced as /ˈlɪtəl/, with a short vowel sound in the first syllable and the stress on the second syllable. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /ˈɛvər soʊ ˈlɪtəl/.
Ever so little is an idiomatic expression used to convey a very small or minute amount or degree of something. It emphasizes the minuscule or barely perceptible nature of a quantity or action. The phrase "ever so" can be considered as an intensifier that emphasizes the degree to which something is small or little.
Literally, "ever so little" can refer to a small or negligible amount of a tangible object or substance. For instance, one might say, "Please give me ever so little sugar in my tea," indicating a request for a very small or minimal amount of sugar. Similarly, it can be used to describe a small change in a physical quantity or dimension, such as "The box needs to be adjusted ever so little to fit through the door."
Figuratively, "ever so little" denotes a small degree or amount of a non-physical concept or state. For example, one might say, "He was ever so little concerned about the outcome of the game," indicating a minimal or barely noticeable level of concern. Additionally, it can be employed to emphasize a slight or almost imperceptible change in behavior, such as "She smiled ever so little at his humorous comment."
Overall, the phrase "ever so little" reflects the idea of a very small amount or degree, emphasizing the minuteness or barely noticeable nature of something.