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in dribs and drabs
01
used to describe something happening or being available in very small amounts
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "dribs and drabs" and when to use it?
The idiom "dribs and drabs" has been in use in English since at least the 16th century. Both "drib" and "drab" originally referred to small, often irregular amounts. This phrase is used to describe small, scattered, or intermittent amounts of something, often implying that these amounts are inadequate or insufficient.It is typically used when discussing the sporadic or fragmented nature of events, information, or resources.
Examples
Donations came in dribs and drabs for the first few weeks.
