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.
"I thought 'maybe they have got the wrong person' or 'is there a bit of dirt on the screen?'."
From BBC ● 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
That’s when he learned that the pressure of playing for millions of dollars is a bit different than the Southeastern Conference.
From The Wall Street Journal ● 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
“Unless it’s a bit of soil that belongs to us,” Granda had said sharply.
From "Nory Ryan’s Song" by Patricia Reilly Giff
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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.