# iota

/ˌaɪˈoʊtə/ (US) · /aɪˈəʊtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/iota
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a very small amount of something. You use this when you want to say that there is almost nothing left or that someone has no power at all.

For teachers: a very small quantity or degree; a negligible amount. Often used in the phrase 'not an iota' to emphasize the absence of any trace or influence.

## Examples

- He has not an iota of common sense.
- The new law gives the local government not an iota of control over the national budget.
- Despite the massive investment, the company's profits remained stagnant, showing not an iota of improvement in their market share or operational efficiency.

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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.