ちょっと
also: ちょと · ちょいと
Meanings
Indicates a small degree or amount. Used with adjectives, verbs, and nouns.
I'm a little tired.
This room is a bit cold.
for a moment; briefly; just a minute
Refers to a short duration or a quick action. Often used when asking someone to wait or when doing something briefly.
Please wait a moment.
I have something to talk about briefly.
Used before a negative verb to mean 'not easily' or 'not readily'. Implies difficulty or impossibility.
This problem cannot be solved easily.
I can't readily recall his name.
Interjection used to get someone's attention, express mild protest, or call out to someone. Casual.
Hey, is that true?
Come on, stop it.
thanks, but no; not feasible; not possible
Used as a set phrase to politely decline an offer or express that something is impossible. Often used with それは or それはちょっと.
"Won't you come with us?" "That's a bit... (not possible)."
I was asked to lend money, but, well, it's not feasible.
Usage patterns· 7
- ちょっと〈形容詞〉すぎるrather/quite too ~ (expressing mild surprise or emphasis)
This cake is a bit too sweet.
- ちょっと待ってwait a moment
Wait a moment, please, I'll be right back.
- それはちょっと〜used to politely decline or say something is difficult/not feasible
That's a bit difficult, I'm afraid.
- ちょっと〈形容詞〉a little ~ (mild degree)
It's a bit cold today, isn't it?
- ちょっと〈動詞〉ないnot easily ~; hard to ~
I can't quite figure out this problem.
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- ちょっと、〈人〉!hey, you! (to call out or protest)
Hey, Tanaka-san, you forgot something!
- ちょっと〈動詞〉てくるto go do something briefly and come back
I'm just going to step out for a bit.
Expressions
- もうちょっとa bit more; a little longer