set little by

set little by (someone or something)

obsolete To have very little regard for someone or something; to not value someone or something very highly. Students who set little by a strict work ethic are sure to have difficulty finding success. I've learned to set little by people so eager to take advantage of their fellow countrymen.See also: by, little, set

set little (or much or a great deal) by

consider to be of little (or great) value.See also: by, little, set