a bit
Idioms-
A small amount of anything; also, a short period of time. For example, Here's a bit of wrapping paper , or It'll be ready in a bit , or Just wait a bit . [c. 1600]
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Somewhat or rather, as in It stings a bit , or Will you have a bit more to eat? [Second half of 1600s] Also see bit by bit ; not a bit .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
So it’s a bit jarring that when Chinese stocks sold off hard this month, regulators pointed the finger not at anything happening in China, but at “境外输入性风险”—or risk imported from abroad.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026
The trading week is pointing to a positive start as tensions appear to be cooling a bit between the U.S. and Iran.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 27, 2026
Humidity levels will remain a bit above normal, especially for coastal areas, due to the warm ocean temperatures, Lewis said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 27, 2026
"It felt like it was made for us. They brought a bit of flavour to life."
From BBC ● Jul. 26, 2026
It was making a low, friendly yip-and-yowl which sounded a bit like it’s all right, I’m a friend.
From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
