The phrase "very little" is commonly used to indicate a small amount. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "very" is spelled /ˈvɛri/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word "little" is spelled /ˈlɪtl/, with the stress on the second syllable. When pronounced together, the stress falls on the second syllable of "little," creating the sound /ˈvɛrɪ ˈlɪtl/. This is a common phrase used in everyday English, and the spelling follows standard English pronunciation rules.
"Very little" is an idiomatic phrase that refers to a minimal or insignificant amount or quantity of something. It is used to describe a situation, object, or action that lacks substance, importance, or size. The term emphasizes the smallness or insignificance of whatever is being discussed.
In terms of quantity or amount, "very little" denotes a quantity that is exceptionally small or barely present. It implies a scarcity or lack of the item or substance being referred to. For example, if someone says they have very little money, it suggests that they have a limited amount of money, possibly not enough to meet their needs or desires.
The phrase can also be used to describe an action or effort. If someone puts in very little effort, it indicates that they have made only a minimal or insufficient attempt to achieve a particular goal or succeed in a task.
Furthermore, "very little" can be used to describe the importance or significance of something. It conveys the idea that the subject at hand holds little relevance or value. For instance, if someone claims that a particular issue has very little impact, they imply that it has minimal consequences or influence.
In summary, "very little" refers to an extraordinary smallness, paucity, or insignificance of quantity, amount, importance, or effort.
The word "very" originated from the Middle English word "verai", which came from the Old French word "verai" meaning "true" or "real". Over time, it developed into "very" in English, maintaining a similar meaning of something being genuine or true.
The origin of the word "little" can be traced back to the Old English word "lȳtel", which also meant small in size or quantity. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "lutan", indicating something that is small or not much.
When these two words are combined, "very little" simply refers to something being extremely small or of a minimal amount.