The idiom "a little from column a, a little from column b" means that someone is taking a little bit of two different options or choices, instead of choosing just one.
For example, if someone is trying to decide between two different ice cream flavors and they can't decide, they might say "I'll have a little from column a, a little from column b" and choose to have a scoop of each flavor.
This idiom can also be used in situations where someone is trying to combine two different ideas or approaches. For instance, if someone is trying to solve a problem and they think that both approach A and approach B have good points, they might say "I'll take a little from column A, a little from column B" and try to combine the two approaches to solve the problem.
Overall, this idiom is used to express that someone is trying to find a compromise or balance between two different options or ideas.
• In my latest book, I blended different genres and styles to create a unique literary work. I wanted to use a little from column a, a little from column b to challenge readers and offer them a fresh perspective on storytelling.
• The restaurant menu had so many delicious options that I couldn't decide what to order. I finally told the waiter to surprise me and bring me a dish that includes a little from column a, a little from column b.
• I'm not sure if I want pizza or pasta for dinner. How about we get a little from column a, a little from column b and order half pizza and half pasta?
• As a teacher, I often combine different teaching methods to make my lessons more interesting and effective. I use a little from column a, a little from column b to create a balanced and engaging learning experience for my students.
• My boss asked me to choose between two marketing strategies for our new product launch. I suggested we could combine both ideas and use a little from column a, a little from column b to create a unique approach.
• My friend asked me if I prefer going to the beach or hiking for our weekend trip. I said, "I like both, so let's do a little from column a, a little from column b, and plan a trip where we can do both activities."