1.
doling out little by little, releasing gradually
The act of providing or releasing something in small portions rather than all at once. Often used for information, money, or resources.
情報を小出しにする。
To release information little by little.
予算を小出しにしていては効果が薄い。
Doling out the budget in small amounts won't be very effective.
政府が対策を小出しにしたため、国民の不満が高まった。
Because the government rolled out measures in small increments, public frustration grew.
USAGE:
Almost always used in the pattern 小出しにする (to dole out little by little). Often carries a negative connotation, implying that withholding or rationing something is insufficient or frustrating. Common in news and business contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 小出しにする: to dole out gradually
- 情報を小出しにする: to release information bit by bit
- 小出しにせず: without holding back, all at once