Definition

Adverb - To any extent at all; in the slightest degree: Used to emphasize a negative statement or question, often in negative contexts or questions to mean "at all."

Usage

This phrase is used to intensify a negation or a question, suggesting that even the smallest amount or degree is relevant or true. It is commonly found in negative sentences or interrogative sentences.

Examples

• In questions:
  • Are you even a little concerned about the deadline? (This asks if there is any concern at all.)
• In negative statements:
  • He didn't show even a little remorse for his actions. (This emphasizes a complete lack of remorse.)
  • There isn't even a little milk left in the fridge. (This stresses that there is no milk whatsoever.)

Advanced Usage

• "not even a little": A common construction to strongly emphasize a total absence or denial.
  • I am not even a little tired after the long hike. (This means "I am not tired at all.")
• Used rhetorically in questions to express doubt or surprise that there is any degree of something.
  • Were you even a little bit happy to see me? (This questions if there was any happiness.)

Variants and Related Words

• In the least: Functionally similar, often used in questions and negatives.
  • I'm not worried in the least.
• At all: A more common synonym with a similar emphatic function in negatives and questions.
  • I don't understand at all.
• The slightest bit: Emphasizes a minimal degree.
  • He wasn't the slightest bit interested.

Synonyms

• At all
• In the least
• In the slightest
• To any degree

Related Phrases

• Even a bit: A near-identical phrase, with "bit" being slightly more informal than "little."
  • She wasn't even a bit surprised.
• So much as: Used in negative contexts to mean "even."
  • He didn't so much as apologize. (He didn't apologize even a little.)

Adverb

1. to any extent at all
   • are you in the least interested?