Meaning

Primary

A Little

Alternatives

A Few, Few

Word Type

adverb, noun

Explanation

This word is a single kanji with hiragana attached, though there is no specific clue as to what type of word it is. That means you can usually guess it's a noun, adverb or na-adjective (in this case it's a noun / adverb). The meaning of this word is pretty much the same as the kanji, though, making it fairly easy. The kanji meaning for is few, and the meaning of the vocab form is a little or a few.

Reading

すこし
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

Did you know that this word created an English word you probably already know? Have you ever heard someone say "just a skosh"? That's 少し! Hopefully you know this English word and therefore know this Japanese word as well.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 少しでも

    even a little bit

    少しずつ

    little by little

    少しだけ

    only a little bit

Context Sentences

カレーが少しあるよ。

There's a little bit of curry.

このアパートは三人には少し小さいですか?

Is this apartment a little small for three people?

ケチャップが少しずつしか出ない。

The ketchup only comes out a little bit at a time.

Kanji Composition