also: すこしまをおいて
expression
after a while; a little while later; shortly afterward
Used as a conjunctive phrase to indicate a short pause or interval before the next action or event.
少し間をおいて、彼は話し始めた。
After a little while, he began to speak.
少し間をおいてから、もう一度電話してください。
Please call again after a short interval.
Similar meaning but more common in everyday speech; 少し間をおいて is slightly more formal and emphasizes a deliberate pause.
Phrase composed of 少し (a little) + 間 (interval) + を + おいて (te-form of 置く, to put/place), literally 'putting a little interval'.