# aly

/ˈeɪɫi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aly
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a very small amount of something. It is a funny or old-fashioned way to say 'a little bit'.

For teachers: a small quantity or amount of something. Often used in a humorous or archaic register to emphasize a minute portion.

## Examples

- I only need a tiny aly of sugar for my tea.
- The recipe calls for a aly of salt, so you should be careful not to use too much.
- While the recipe suggests a generous helping, the experienced chef noted that a aly of this spice is sufficient to transform the entire dish.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.