Little/no better than

usgb
phrase

Almost as bad as; slightly improved but still unsatisfactory.

Her performance was little better than last week's catastrophe.
Visual representation of "little/no better than" - Almost as bad as; slightly improved but still unsatisfactory

Often appears as...

  • situation is little better than
  • performance was little better than

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "little/no better than"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emphasizes Discontent

Use when emphasizing dissatisfaction with minor improvements.

Illustration for Emphasizes Discontent
The service in this café is little better than last time, still slow and unattentive.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Comparative Negativity

Highlights a negative comparison to a barely superior reference point.

Illustration for Comparative Negativity
The sequel was little better than the original movie, with only minor tweaks.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not a Compliment

Don't mistake it for praise; it implies remaining problems.

Illustration for Not a Compliment
His apology was little better than his original comment, still rude and lacking sincerity.
Visual representation of the word "Little/no better than"

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