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.
It might do harm; it might do good; it will likely do a bit of both to everyone it touches, and to different degrees.
From Slate • Jun. 18, 2026
It might need to only give a bit under pressure.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 18, 2026
That’s a bit of a stretch, particularly given the market jumped Monday on news of the accord—but a rally doesn’t need much excuse to roll in the current environment.
From Barron's • Jun. 18, 2026
But I’ve heard you reference “Entourage” quite a bit.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026
His soul, too, had been dragging a bit, weary and short-tempered.
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
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.
