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UK//ˈlɪtəl leɪt//US//ˈlɪtəl leɪt//

Meaning of Little late

Arriving or doing something after the expected time by a small margin.

In simple words: Not on time, but only by a small amount.

Little late in a sentence

  • I'm sorry I'm a little late; traffic was heavier than I expected.
  • She always said it's fine to be a little late to the party.
  • I hope you don't mind me being a little late for our meeting.
  • He arrived a little late but still managed to catch the presentation.
  • It's okay to be a little late, just let us know.

How to use Little late

Use 'little late' in casual conversation. It's polite to use in a response when you're apologizing for being late.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a tiny tortoise saying, 'I'm a little late!'

Related words

Collocations with Little late

  • a little late
  • running a little late
  • arrive a little late
  • feeling a little late
  • being a little late

Synonyms for Little late

  • slightly delayed
  • a bit tardy
  • a tad off schedule
  • somewhat behind
  • not quite on time

Common mistakes with Little late

  • Using 'little' with plural nouns incorrectly.
  • Confusing 'late' with 'lately'.
  • Not using 'a' when saying 'a little late'.

Little late appears in

Little late in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Little late

What does Little late mean?

Not on time, but only by a small amount.

What is the definition of Little late?

Arriving or doing something after the expected time by a small margin.

How do you use Little late in a sentence?

I'm sorry I'm a little late; traffic was heavier than I expected.

Can you give another example of Little late?

She always said it's fine to be a little late to the party.

What are synonyms for Little late?

Common alternatives include slightly delayed, a bit tardy, a tad off schedule, somewhat behind, not quite on time.

What words go with Little late?

It commonly pairs with a little late, running a little late, arrive a little late, feeling a little late, being a little late.

What are common mistakes when using Little late?

Using 'little' with plural nouns incorrectly. Confusing 'late' with 'lately'. Not using 'a' when saying 'a little late'.

How do you pronounce Little late?

US: //ˈlɪtəl leɪt//, UK: //ˈlɪtəl leɪt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Little late?

Use 'little late' in casual conversation. It's polite to use in a response when you're apologizing for being late.