The phrase "next to nothing" is commonly used to describe a very small amount or value of something. It is pronounced /nɛkst tu nʌθɪŋ/ following a straightforward spelling of each word in the phrase. The "k" and "s" sounds blend together smoothly to form the "ks" sound, while the unstressed syllables are reduced to a schwa sound. The word "nothing" is often contracted to "nuthin'" in informal speech, but the spelling remains the same.
Next to nothing is an idiomatic expression that typically means very little or almost nothing. It is used to describe an extremely small quantity or value, often emphasizing the insignificance or minimalism of something. The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as cost, quantity, quality, or importance.
In terms of cost, next to nothing implies that the price or value of something is extremely low or affordable, almost to the point of being negligible. For example, "I bought this shirt for next to nothing at the thrift store."
Regarding quantity, next to nothing suggests an almost negligible amount or an extremely small number. For instance, "The hotel occupancy rate was next to nothing during the off-season, with only two guests staying overnight."
When referring to quality, next to nothing indicates a lack of substance or value, often implying something is close to being worthless or of little value. For instance, "The movie received terrible reviews and was considered to be next to nothing in terms of plot and character development."
Lastly, next to nothing can also describe the importance or significance of something, suggesting a lack of relevance or impact. For example, "Her opinion on the matter was next to nothing since she had no expertise or experience in the field."
Overall, next to nothing is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the insignificance, minimalism, or lack of value of various aspects.