262 CHAPTER 5. COUNTERS AND COUNTING
Like and , this quantifier is typically followed by a negative
verb:
”(I) don’t understand this at all.”
However, on its own just means ”clean” or ”neatly”, again
highlighting the fact that most quantifiers associated with a negative quan-
tity only do so thanks to the negative verb form.
Literally, this quantifier means ”in small part”, and is usually followed by
a positive verb:
literally: ”Waiting for a liĴle while is okay, isn’t it?”
”Could (we) wait for just a bit?”
”I understand Japanese a liĴle.”
This quantifier can be followed by either a positive verb or verbal adjec-
tive in normal statements, or by negative verbs and verbal adjectives when
used in the form of a question. When used in a negative question, the full
sentence actually connotes a positive, as can be seen in the following ex-
amples:
”Isn’t it a liĴle cold?”
”Shall (we) take a liĴle walk?”
Used with a positive, there is nothing remarkable to note:
”This is a bit expensive, don’t you agree?”
