Meaning
It is not surprising that something is the case, given the circumstances
Primary Function
Expressing obviousness or consequence
Communicative Purpose
To convey that an event or situation is expected or predictable
Pattern
Little wonder; that
Core Structure
Little wonder; that
Função primária
Expressing obviousness or consequence
Propósito comunicativo
To convey that an event or situation is expected or predictable
Situações de gatilho
Formal discussions, analytical conversations, written commentary
Contextos
Academic writing, professional settings, everyday conversations
Padrão
Little wonder; that
Estrutura central
Little wonder; that
Slots de substituição
The word 'that' can be optional, and 'small wonder' is a possible alternative
Colocados típicos
- that
- given
- considering
Substituições comuns
- No wonder
- It's no surprise
- Hardly surprising
Erros comuns
Using 'Little wonder why' instead of 'Little wonder that' or 'No wonder why'
Similar / contraste
No wonder, It's no surprise
Interferências
Learners may overuse 'No wonder' and miss the nuance of 'Little wonder'
Família do chunk
- Obvious consequence openers
- consequence markers
Nuance
Slightly more formal than 'No wonder', often used in written commentary to introduce a logical consequence
Efeito pragmático
Presents a logical consequence, sometimes with a humorous tone
Dica de memória
Little wonder equals not much wonder equals obvious
Nota
The expression 'Little wonder' is often used to introduce a statement that is seen as an obvious or logical consequence of given circumstances. It can be used both formally and informally, but it is slightly more formal than 'No wonder'.
Upgrade path
From 'No wonder' to 'Little wonder' to 'It is hardly surprising'
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