What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
little
Example
I only need a little bit of sugar for my coffee. [little: adjective]
Example
The little girl was excited to start her first day of school. [little: adjective]
Example
Come here, my little puppy! [little: noun]
petite
Example
She is a petite woman with a slim figure. [petite: adjective]
Example
I always have trouble finding clothes in the petite section. [petite: noun]
Example
The tea set was decorated with petite flowers and intricate designs. [petite: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Little is more commonly used than petite in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, petite is commonly used in fashion and design industries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between little and petite?
Petite is generally considered more formal than little, as it has French origins and is often used in fashion and design contexts. Little is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
